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Napoleon III Warwick Vase
Paris, 3rd Quarter 19th C. |
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Napoleon III Warwick Vase
Paris: 3d quarter 19th Century Gilt bronze 8 inches high, 5 1/2 inch opening, 12 inches diameter (handle to handle) $1,600 |
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The mammoth 10-foot Warwick Vase, created in ancient Rome, was uncovered from the bottom of Lake Tivoli, near Hadrian's Villa in the 18th Century. It features classical bacchal masks and associated emblems such as a pine-cone tip staff known as a thysrus, together with classical leaves and intertwined naturalistic handles, raised on a square plinth. It was owned by Sir William Hamilton, the special consul to Naples, who was well-known for his famous collection of antiquities including terra cotta vases. Hamilton in turn gave the vase to his nephew, the Earl of Warwick. The original stood at Warwick Castle until the 1970s, when it was sold to the Burrell Collection in Glasgow, where it is now on display. The vase was illustrated by G.B. Piranesi in an engraving from his famous Vasi book, and was reproduced in a variety of media in the 19th century, including silver and iron. This replica is in gilt bronze.
Condition generally good. Gilding somewhat worn and tarnished, but still attractive. |