Classical Portrait Medallions
Continental: 19th Century
Bronze medallions mounted on velvet-covered plaques
3.75 x 2.5 inches, each medallion
11.5 x 9.75 inches, each plaque
$2,400, the pair
Collection of eight patinated bronze oval portrait medallions mounted on two plaques. Each medallion consists of a bas-relief profile of a man or woman of the ancient world (possibly Roman emperors and their wives), bordered by a raised decorative frame surmounted by a cord forming a bow, probably originally intended for hanging them from nails on the wall. They are mounted in sets of four on a pair of antique wooden lozenge form plaques that are covered in red crushed velvet attached to the sides with brass tacks. The medallions are 19th century, but the plaques are later, c. 1850 to 1920. They are stamped with a red wax seal on the backs, presumably those of the past owner or the person who mounted them.
Condition: Medallions generally very good with usual light overall wear. Velvet considerably worn, losing fibers, but in attractive natural antique state.
