Crafted in Milan in the late twentieth century, c.1980, this magnificent, lavish, elaborate centrepiece is an Italian, parcel-gilt, silver, and hardstone sculpture, in the style of a fruit-bowl raised on floating scrolls above a gilt surtout de table.Â
It features a oval base, cast with rocaille, which is raised on a set of eight scrolled feet in large, thick strips of ribbons. In the centre is a radiant, richly veneered oval of malachite, with small, carved harstone pieces surrounding which imitate a variety of fruit. Above the base are a set of four pegasus sculptures, beautifully sculpted, above which further ribbon-scrolls support the central dish.
The main section: the raised, intricate sculptural dish, displays a selection of fruit including pears, pineapples, pomegranates, and citrus fruits, scattered intermittently with small berries. The centrepiece is approximately 70cm in length - large and elaborate in scale - and consists of just over 14 kilograms of beautiful Italian craftsmanship. The casting of the silver, partially-gilt, combined with the use of skilfully applied hardstones demonstrates the oustanding skill of Milanese metalworkers working in the last century.