Fruit bowl - Grand Tour Cake Stand in Bronze and Brass...

Here is an exceptional and refined example of applied art metalwork from the late 19th century, a piece that perfectly embodies the elegance and erudition of the Grand Tour style and the European Renaissance Revival. This splendid footed centerpiece stands out for its impeccably proportional harmony (24 x 15 cm) and for the extraordinary richness of details, executed with a high-quality alloying. The Details That Make the Difference: Natural Darkening and Historical Patina: The metal surface has deliberately not been polished to a mirror finish in order to preserve its ancient soul. It features fascinating natural darkening and warm golden-brown hues, typical of brass and bronze exposed to air for over a century. This genuine oxidation gives the piece extraordinary visual depth, impossible to replicate in modern reproductions. Sculpted Dragon Handles: True protagonists of the piece, the two winged dragons opposing each other show exceptional definition of scales, wings, and heads. In 19th-century iconography, these mythological creatures served as protective guardians of the tray’s contents, lending the object a proud and captivating stage presence. The Central Medallion “All’Antica”: Perfectly inset at the center of the plate, a precious circular bronze insert with a magnificent dark patina “to medal” stands out. The relief depicts the profile of a classical deity, a learned reference to Greek and Roman archaeological numismatics beloved by the upper middle class of the era. Era-Appropriate Constructing with a Mirror Effect: The underside of the plate is enriched with superb beadwork (radiating spokes), evidence of 360-degree artisanal care. The baluster stem rests on a finely molded base with beaded edges. Historical Function, Signs of Time, and Charm: Originally born in noble homes as an exclusive presentation plate for guests’ business cards (calling card tray), the piece shows honest signs of wear. Small dark encrustations and historic remnants of old cleaning pastes have settled in the recesses of the casting and around the central medallion. Far from being defects, these traces of use tell the intimate story of the object and attest to its long life. The stand today doubles as a sophisticated decorative feature or an accent catch-all. It is a multifaceted piece, capable of dialoguing magnificently with classic antique interiors or serving as a contrast element in a modern design environment. Auction Technical Sheet Type: Presentation stand / Art decanter tray / Grand Tour cup Era: Late 19th century (circa 1870–1890) Material: Solid brass and bronze, finely hand-cast and chased Dimensions: Maximum width at handles 24 cm, height 15 cm Valuation and Estimated Value: The antique market value for eclectic contemporaneous fusions of this quality and structural completeness historically lies in the €250–€300 range. The lot is offered with a Reserve Price set at €200, a competitive figure that safeguards the piece’s exceptional historical value while leaving generous investment margin for collectors. Condition: Excellent original condition, intact and “as is.” The item has not undergone invasive restorations or modern chemical polishing that would have eroded collectible value. Solid structure, stable and perfectly tightened by the original 19th-century threaded pin. Time marks and natural darkening of the metal alloy guarantee its authenticity and historicity. An unmissable opportunity to enrich a collection of ancient metals or to insert a piece of history and genuine class into one’s home.

Estimación:€180

Ver todos los artículos deCatawikioMuebles, diseño & espejos