Mounted on black and purple card, these delicate plaster intaglios served as cherished relics of the Grand Tour, capturing history in intricate detail.
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This very fine collection of eighteen plaster intaglios was crafted in early 19th century Italy. Each piece has been cast to depict busts of prominent historical and mythological figures from antiquity, including the Gorgon, Jupiter, and Mars.
Delicately arranged in a circular pattern, the intaglios are set against a black card background, accentuating their brilliant white colouring. A striking outer border of vibrant purple card frames the arrangement, while the wooden frame is lacquered with resin to create a rich, marbleised finish.
Plaster intaglios like these were popular souvenirs during the Grand Tour, a traditional rite of passage for young European noblemen in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Travelling through culturally and historically significant sites, they sought to cultivate a deeper appreciation of classical antiquity and develop a refined taste for the neoclassical aesthetic.
A timeless addition to any classical art collection, this set embodies the elegance and refinement of neoclassical design.
Reference:
17936b
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