{"title":"6.26 Italian Collection","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"rouge-de-france-marble-pedestal-18th-century","title":"Rouge de France Marble Pedestal, 18th Century","description":"This elegant Italian pedestal is hewn from a striking piece of Rouge de France marble. Quarried only in France, Rouge de France marble has been hotly sought-after since ancient times for the highly varied, vibrant colors and patterns that naturally occur in the stone. A cultural symbol of tradition and refined taste for centuries, many important monuments, objets d’art and masterpieces have been crafted from this fine, scarlet-hued marble. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 16 1\/8“ wide x 10 3\/4” deep x 47 1\/4“ high ","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41238307668103,"sku":"30-9253","price":38500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/30-9253_1.png?v=1717921755"},{"product_id":"italian-panel-of-orpheus-and-eurydice","title":"Italian Panel of Orpheus and Eurydice","description":"Greek mythology comes to life in this extraordinary gouache and oil on canvas. The exceptionally rare work likely depicts the tragic myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. Orpheus, a legendary great hero renowned for his musical skills, was the son of the Thracian king Oeagrus and the Muse Calliope, the patron of epic poetry. According to legend, Orpheus was gifted his first lyre by the god Apollo, who was impressed by his superhuman musical talents.\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nThe tale for which Orpheus is best remembered, however, is the one likely depicted in this panel, wherein he rescued his wife, Eurydice, from the underworld. On the day of her wedding, Eurydice was set upon by a satyr, and in her efforts to escape, she was bitten by a snake. Overcome by grief, Orpheus traveled to the underworld with his lyre in order to appeal to Hades and Persephone to return his wife. Hearts softened by his song, they agreed to allow Eurydice to return to earth, on the condition that he not turn to look at her until they escaped the underworld. Tragically, Orpheus was unable to comply with this condition - he turned back to catch a glimpse of her, and his wife vanished forever.\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nOne of the most popular of the Greek myths, Orpheus' story is brilliantly recreated in this gouache and oil on canvas, which captured the musician as he plays for the god and goddess of the underworld. Likely once displayed in the music room of an Italian villa, it is an exceptional example of its genre.\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nCirca 1800\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nCanvas: 31 1\/2\" high x 48\" wide\u003cbr\u003e\nFrame: 52 1\/4\" wide x 36\" high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43672837390471,"sku":"30-9010","price":24500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/30-9010_1_42c3eaca-8071-43c3-bdee-516c992787fa.png?v=1769761361"},{"product_id":"venetian-figural-torcheres-17th-century","title":"Venetian Figural Torchères, 17th Century","description":"Carved wooden torchères\u003cbr\u003e Venetian artist\u003cbr\u003e Early 17th century \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Awe-inspiring in size and artistry, these incredible Venetian figural torchères pay homage to two of Italy’s most celebrated merchant explorers–Marco Polo and Amerigo Vespucci. Standing over nine feet high, these impressive carved wood sculptures were crafted in the late Renaissance in the Lombardo manner and are masterpieces of the centuries-old tradition of Venetian woodcarving. Most works executed during this era were ecclesiastical or architectural in nature, such as the Archangel torchères found in the Palazzo Moncenigo in Venice, a fact that makes these substantial secular figures an incredible rarity. Given their depiction of historical figures, these torchères would most likely have been specially commissioned by a wealthy Venetian merchant or public official to be displayed at the entrance of his palace. Outside of the similar pair housed in the Doge’s Palace in Venice, these figures are the only other secular pair known to exist anywhere in the world.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Displaying incredible attention to detail, the merchant explorers are rendered in exotic clothing inspired by their travels that forever changed the course of history. Retaining much of their original paint, a combination of gilt, polychrome and natural wood gives these imposing sculptures a dynamic and more life-like appearance. Known in Italy as androne torchère, these figures would have flanked the entrance hall stairwell making an unquestionably grand impression upon visitors.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Wooden sculptures of this immense quality and scale would be nearly impossible to survive in the condition of the present pair. The passage of nearly 400 years, combined with the regularity of floods throughout Venice’s history, make these figural torchères among the rarest works of Venetian art on the market today.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Each: 114” high x 44” wide x 30” deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43231050629255,"sku":"30-3346","price":348500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/30-3346_1.png?v=1758655492"},{"product_id":"tomb-of-the-scipios-grand-tour-souvenir","title":"Tomb of the Scipios Grand Tour Souvenir ","description":"This incredible Grand Tour inkwell relic takes the form of the ancient Tomb of the Scipios, a family of Roman war heroes and generals. Beautifully carved entirely of Siena marble, the inkwell's design is masterful and precise to the original monument, even down to the inscription. Simply remove the lid to reveal a pair of ink wells and a pen holder. The Tomb of the Scipios was erected around 150 B.C.E. Widely copied many times and produced as a model along with other ancient monuments, it was a particular favorite of those on the Grand Tour in the 18th and 19th century when such models were purchased as souvenirs.\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nCirca 1880\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n8\" wide x 2 1\/4\" deep x 4 1\/4\" high \n ","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43873354121351,"sku":"30-4919","price":14500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/30-4919_1.png?v=1770665368"},{"product_id":"grand-tour-siena-marble-columns","title":"Grand Tour Siena Marble Columns","description":"This elegantly crafted pair of Grand Tour models evoke the lasting grandeur of ancient Rome. Produced in Rome in the second half of the 19th century, the exquisite architectural models were likely a souvenir from the Grand Tour of an affluent tourist. The ruins of the temples of ancient Rome were considered the grandest examples of Roman architecture, and diminutive models such as this one were among the most sought after souvenirs. Crafted of Siena marble, the duo is a lasting relic of the extraordinary grandeur of the ancient world.\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nCirca 1880\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n6” high x 2 1\/2” diameter","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41237956460679,"sku":"30-4257","price":2985.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/30-4257_1.png?v=1717921298"},{"product_id":"venetian-wood-sculpture","title":"Venetian Wood Sculpture","description":"This exceptional and monumental Venetian wood sculpture features two putti holding a footed tray. With all of the exquisite workmanship expected from the famed art and artisan hub, this sculpture is further elevated by its base decorated with bas-relief of the view from St. Mark's Square. The classical view of Venice overlooking the Grand Canal towards the Doge's Palace evokes all of the splendor of Italian artistry. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1870 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 79\" high x 26\" wide x 17\" deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41239052714119,"sku":"28-2465","price":14500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/28-2465_1.png?v=1712739732"},{"product_id":"17th-century-italian-carved-marble-plaques","title":"17th-Century Italian Carved Marble Plaques","description":"Incredibly well-preserved and stunning in their execution, this pair of marble plaques depict St. Jerome and Mary Magdalene. Hard-carved in Italy in the mid-17th century, these pieces epitomize the dramatic forms that took shape during the Baroque Period. Unlike the preceding Renaissance Period, which prized perfection of form above all else, the Baroque Period heralded in an era of theatricality in art. These figures, in their slightly twisted, dramatic poses, exude that sense of dynamic movement that was so prized.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nEach depicted with skulls and crosses, these images of St. Jerome and Mary Magdalene suggest a dramatic moment of repentance and prayer. The expressive, beautifully detailed images form a wonderfully emotional and spiritual image that is typical of the period.\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBeautifully crafted, this pair is a true rarity. Not only are decorative works from this period increasingly difficult to find on the market, they are also exceptionally scarce due to their frailty.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nItalian, Circa 1670\u003cbr\u003e\n12\" high x 14\" wide x 2 1\/2\" deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42215160316039,"sku":"30-2084","price":38500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/30-2084_1_7d15ef84-bc9d-4b53-b2f2-6381f6763f98.png?v=1736115784"},{"product_id":"bust-of-pope-innocent-xi-odescalchi-by-domenico-guidi","title":"Bust of Pope Innocent XI Odescalchi by Domenico Guidi","description":"Domenico Guidi\u003cbr\u003e 1625-1701 | Italian \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cem\u003eBust of Pope Innocent XI Odescalchi\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Carrara marble \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This monumental bust is a museum-quality example of Roman Baroque sculpture. Crafted by the legendary Domenico Guidi and carved from Carrara marble, the impressive portrait captures the visage of Pope Innocent XI, Benedetto Odescalchi (1611-1689). It presents a larger-than-life example of Guidi’s remarkable skill as a sculptor, which ultimately made his workshop one of the most important in Rome during his age. Today, his works are rarely found on the market, particularly his extraordinary works in marble. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Pope Innocent XI was born Benedetto Odescalchi into an Italian noble family of prominent bankers. Spending his early years in banking, he eventually turned to the law, earning his doctorate in 1639. His background would serve him well in his service to the papacy, and he became known as a frugal and devout member of the Church. In 1676, he was unanimously elected Pope after the death of Clement X. During his nearly 13-year reign, he instilled his own personal ideals of austerity and frugality onto the Church, with a deep commitment to reform and piety. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e He is captured here by Guidi in his traditional Pope’s mozzetta and camauro cap. A wide stole is draped over his shoulders, ornamented by acanthus leaves and the coat of arms of the Odescalchi family. It displays Guidi’s mastery over the chiaroscuro effect, particularly in the high level of contrast in his cheeks and his eyes, which Guidi achieved through various methods of high polish.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e A very similar portrait sculpture of Pope Innocent XI by Guidi can be found in the collection of the Royal Castle in Warsaw. The Warsaw bust belongs to a series of portraits of popes which the Odescalchi family commissioned from Domenico Guidi in the 1690s. Compared to that example, the present bust is far more dramatic, with deeper cut lines and a more precise expression. It is likely that the present piece was seen by the Odescalchi family, who ordered a similar one to be made. The piece was almost certainly intended to be displayed in a niche, given its dramatic cutting and its roughly carved back. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Others of Guidi’s busts can be found in important collections throughout Italy, England and the United States, though many of these are lesser bronze repetitions. A bronze bust of Pope Alexander VIII by Guidi is currently in the collection of the Victoria \u0026amp; Albert Museum (London), while a terracotta version of the same is in the Los Angeles County Museum. A bronze of Pope Alexander VIII can be found in the Princely Collection of Lichtenstein, and his impressive marble papal bust of Clement IX graces the pope’s tomb in Santa Maria Maggiore. The present bust of Pope Innocent XI stands among these impressive examples as a truly museum-quality work by this Baroque master. That ours is also a marble original makes it all the more exceptional. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Domenico Guidi was the nephew of the prominent sculptor Giuliano Finella, and in 1639, he joined his uncle in Naples in order to learn the family business. His first task was a monumental one – he assisted Finella on thirteen statues of saints for the Cathedral in Naples. It was well known that his uncle had an ongoing feud with the great Baroque sculptor Bernini, and thus Guidi never entered his workshop. Instead, he went to Rome to work for Bernini’s main rival Alessandro Algardi in 1648 and, after the master’s death in 1654, began his own independent career. His workshop quickly became one of the most popular in Rome, particularly following the death of Bernini, and he also enjoyed remarkable success in France. Today, his sculptures stand as remarkable examples of the Roman Baroque style. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1690 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 46” high x 35” wide x 17” deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42542450770055,"sku":"30-7781","price":298500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/30-7781_1_58a93872-762c-425d-84bd-6248f3881c2a.png?v=1743858907"},{"product_id":"italian-panel-of-eurydice-with-naiads","title":"Italian Panel of Eurydice with Naiads","description":"A fascinating tale from Greek mythology is revealed in this extraordinary gouache and oil on canvas. The rare Italian painting is believed to depict a scene from the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. One of the most tragic figures in Greek mythology, the nymph Eurydice was one of the daughters of the god Apollo. According to legend, she wed Orpheus, the legendary musician and hero who was the son of the Muse Calliope. She is captured here on the day of her wedding, joyfully dancing with the naiads in a vast field, though their severe expressions reveal the tragedy that is about to befall her.\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nShortly after Eurydice's dance with the naiads, she was set upon by a satyr; in her efforts to escape, she was bitten on the foot by a poisonous snake and died. Overcome by grief, Orpheus traveled to the underworld with his lyre in order to appeal to Hades and Persephone to return his wife. Hearts softened by his song, they agreed to allow Eurydice to return to earth, on the condition that he not turn to look at her until they escaped the underworld. Tragically, Orpheus was unable to comply with this condition - he turned back to catch a glimpse of her, and his wife vanished forever.\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nOne of the most popular of the Greek myths, Orpheus and Eurydice's story is brilliantly recreated in this gouache and oil on canvas. Likely once displayed in the music room of an Italian villa, it is an exceptional example of its genre.\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nCirca 1800\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nCanvas: 31 1\/2\" high x 48\" wide\u003cbr\u003e\nFrame: 52 1\/4\" wide x 36\" high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43672837718151,"sku":"30-9079","price":24500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/30-9079_1_02dd6ff8-363a-40cb-92e8-9d58b3056928.png?v=1769758608"},{"product_id":"italian-panel-with-satyr-and-nymphs","title":"Italian Panel with Satyr and Nymphs","description":"This extraordinary Italian gouache and oil on canvas brings two of the most popular characters from Greek mythology vividly the life - the nymph and the satyr. Both creatures are famed for their carefree natures and lascivious temperaments, and tales abound of satyrs pursing nubile nymphs in order to rape or seduce them, usually with little success. One such narrative humorously unfolds in the present piece, which depicts an indignant satyr captured by three nymphs with a golden net.\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nThe relationship between these two mythological creatures was a popular one for artists throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, though its origins stretch back to antiquity. Both satyrs and nymphs were commonly found on ancient Greek pottery, which inspired later Italian revivals such as the present piece. A similar scene was also captured by the great William-Adolphe Bouguereau in his 1873 masterpiece \u003cem\u003eNymphs and Satyr\u003c\/em\u003e, wherein a group of nymphs is surprised by a lascivious satyr while bathing.\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nAmong the most popular of the Greek mythological characters, the satyr and nymph are brilliantly recreated in this gouache and oil on canvas. Likely once displayed in the music room of an Italian villa, it is an exceptional example of its genre.\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nCirca 1800\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nCanvas: 31 1\/2\" high x 48\" wide\u003cbr\u003e\nFrame: 52 1\/4\" wide x 36\" high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43672837816455,"sku":"30-9080","price":24500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/30-9080_1_b17db1e6-ef9e-4862-92da-dea817279415.png?v=1769758555"},{"product_id":"virgin-and-child-with-the-infant-saint-john-by-domenico-puligo","title":"Virgin and Child with the Infant Saint John by Domenico Puligo","description":"Domenico Puligo\u003cbr\u003e 1492-1527 | Italian \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cem\u003eVirgin and Child with the Infant Saint John\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Oil on panel \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e A masterful example of Italian Mannerist painting, this exceptional panel was composed by the renowned Florentine painter Domenico Puligo. Alongside Jacopo Pontormo and Rosso Fiorentino, Puligo is remembered as one of the foremost figures of the Mannerist movement that rose to prominence during the 16th century in Florence. This panel of the Virgin Mary with the Christ child and Saint John the Baptist is a characteristic example of his celebrated devotional images, which grace museums such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, Museo del Prado in Madrid, Palazzo Borghese in Rome and Palazzo Pitti in Florence, among many others. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Puligo’s skill with color is fully demonstrated in the beautifully preserved work. Considering its age, the vibrancy and the sheer range of color are remarkable. The Virgin Mary’s crimson dress displays an impressive level of chiaroscuro, ranging from deep burgundy to vibrant pink. It is perfectly juxtaposed against the dark greens and purples of her mantle. Apart from the two holy children, the remainder of the painting offers a view of a vast landscape, executed in various shades of blues and greens. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Puligo has perfected the soft sfumato effect; combined with his exaggerated, yet elegant distortion of his figures, his \u003cem\u003eVirgin and Child with the Infant Saint John\u003c\/em\u003e embodies the Mannerist idiom. The 16th-century art form emerged during the Late Renaissance. Whereas painters of the High Renaissance sought to achieve harmonious ideals and perfect proportions, the Mannerists created compositions that evoked drama through elongated limbs, strained poses, and vivid colors. Like other Mannerists of his generation, Puligo’s compositions are imbued with emotion and sentimentality rather than naturalism and perfect perspective. The style is well suited to the Virgin and Child trope, lending a motherly tenderness to Puligo’s devotional works. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Domenico Puligo was born in Florence into a family of blacksmiths, though little else is known of his early life. He trained under Ridolfo Ghirlandaio, and briefly worked under Andrea del Sarto, who became a profound influence on the young painter. The majority of Puligo’s output was focused on medium-sized religious paintings such as the present work, which he composed as special commissions for his client’s private devotion. A small group of altarpieces and a number of commissioned portraits have also been attributed to the artist. His oeuvre, however, is small, as he died at the young age of 35 after contracting the plague. Today, the majority of his works are found only in museum collections. It is incredibly rare to come across such a fine example as this on the market. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1515 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Panel: 33 1\/2” high x 25” wide\u003cbr\u003e Frame: 50 1\/8\" high x 40 3\/8\" wide \n Provenance: Sotheby's London, Old Master Paintings Auction July 3, 1991, Lot #221 Private Collection, Turin, Italy","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43261604200583,"sku":"30-8679","price":345000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/30-8679_1.png?v=1759512293"},{"product_id":"saint-cosmas-and-saint-damian-attributed-to-bonifacio-bembo","title":"Saint Cosmas and Saint Damian attributed to Bonifacio Bembo","description":"Attributed to Bonifacio Bembo\u003cbr\u003e 1420-1478 | Italy \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cem\u003eSaint Cosmas and Saint Damian\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Tempera on panel \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e These exceptionally rare early Renaissance panels of Saint Cosmas and Saint Damian are an extraordinary new discovery. Based on the research of art historians Marco Tanzi and Andrea de Marchi, it is believed that these represent the missing panels from the famed polyptych formerly displayed on the altar of the Chapel of San Nicola da Tolentino in the Church of Sant’Agostino in Cremona, Italy. To find two matching early Renaissance panels outside of a museum or church, particularly in such remarkable condition, is an extraordinary rarity. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The central and left-sided panels of the original five-part polyptych are currently in the collection of the Museo Civico Ala Ponzone in Cremona. These panels have luckily remained intact, and respectively portray the\u003cem\u003e Madonna and Child Enthroned with Angels and Donor, Saint Nicholas of Tolentino\u003c\/em\u003e (the chapel’s namesake) and \u003cem\u003eSaint George\u003c\/em\u003e.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e While the present panels have since been reduced, that they belong to the Cremonese altarpiece is confirmed by a number of stylistic elements. All five panels contain the same rich decorative arabesque pattern on their stamped gold background, while the figures’ knurled haloes are identical in both their fineness of line and use of perspective. The proportions of the figures coincide perfectly; Saints Cosmas and Damian would have originally also been depicted as full-length figures, fitting into the vertical, Gothic style of the altarpiece. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e According to the Christian religion, Saint Cosmas and Saint Damian were 3rd century physicians born in Arabia. Little is known about their lives except that they were reputedly twin brothers and that they were martyred in Syria during the persecution of Emperor Diocletian. It was believed that the saints were skilled in healing, and when their medicines failed, their faith and prayers could always perform miracles. Thus, the saints are often depicted with their medical equipment while wearing the traditional medieval doctor’s garb of crimson robes and distinctive round red hats. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The saints are similarly depicted in the present panels, though considering the manner in which they have been cut, their medical tools are not immediately evident. The saints were highly popular as patrons of wealthy families during the Gothic and Renaissance eras, particularly the Medici, and thus they occur frequently in art from the era. The twins, for instance, are found in the famed San Marco Altarpiece by Fra Angelico in the San Marco Museum (Florence), as well as in a set of Medici panels crafted by Filippo Lippi currently in the collection of the National Gallery (London). \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Along with the remainder of the Cremonese altarpiece, these present panels have been attributed to the Northern Italian Renaissance painter Bonifacio Bembo. Active in Cremona throughout the 15th century, he would have been a natural choice for the construction of the altarpiece, which was to be part of a new chapel dedicated to San Nicola da Tolentina in the church of Sant'Agostino in Cremona. The Cavalcabò chapel, which is also in the Sant'Agostino, is similarly attributed to him. Several other of his works can be found in museums and churches throughout Italy and beyond, including the Pinacoteca di Brera (Milan), Denver Museum of Art, and the Musée des Arts Décoratifs (Paris), among others. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1454-1458 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Panel: 14 5\/8” high x 11 3\/8” wide (37.15 x 28.89 cm)\u003cbr\u003e Frame: 22 3\/4” high x 19 1\/2” wide x 2 1\/2\" deep (57.79 x 49.53 x 6.35 cm) \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rau-sfimages.s3.amazonaws.com\/dossier\/Dossier_30-8695.pdf\" target=\"new\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eView the Dossier\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This work was exhibited at The European Fine Art Fair. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Provenance:\u003cbr\u003e Private Collection, London\u003cbr\u003e M.S. Rau, New Orleans","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44050894815367,"sku":"30-8695","price":248500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/30-8695_1_e3932cdd-d2ed-4759-b626-be58a4b708f0.png?v=1774967625"},{"product_id":"grand-tour-marble-and-ormolu-obelisks","title":"Grand Tour Marble and Ormolu Obelisks","description":"Perfectly proportioned and impressive in size, this striking pair of obelisks is crafted from specimens of rosso antico and Siena marble with ormolu accents. The duo were almost certainly made in Italy in the 19th century during the height of the Grand Tour, when the fervor for all things ancient pervaded the decorative arts. Egyptian-inspired objects such as these were particularly prized, especially those crafted in fine examples of Italian hardstones.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Interest in Egyptian art first began to grow in the 1790s when Napoleon invaded Egypt, which lead to an influx of Egyptian art and design into French culture. The acquisition of Egyptian-inspired decorative arts, particularly those of such quality materials, was a pursuit in which only the most privileged members of society initially indulged, and the wealthy filled their drawing rooms with the new, extravagant decor. The fervor for Egyptian-style art and architecture continued to grow over the coming decades, and the style remains highly fashionable among both collectors and designers today. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1850 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 4 5\/8\" wide x 4 5\/8\" deep x 34 1\/2\" high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43672870420615,"sku":"31-0206","price":24500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-0206_1_3724cee9-53e5-4149-adbc-a246e84f265a.png?v=1767207132"},{"product_id":"murano-venetian-glass-water-fountain","title":"Murano Venetian Glass Water Fountain","description":"An unquestionable masterpiece of Venetian glass artistry, this incredible fountain is the rarest and most fascinating form of Murano glass ever created. These fountains were masterpieces requiring tremendous skill and typically only made for special commissions, with no two forms being the same. Attributed to the studio of Gino Cenedese, this unique fixture stands over five feet high and is crafted of hand-worked Murano glass. Four voluptuous glass figures representing the Four Seasons encircle the basin with bouquets of glass flowers between them. At the center of each bloom is a spout from which water, or champagne, gently cascades into the basin, creating a dazzling effect amongst the rainbow of glistening glass. The pedestal is crafted entirely of cordonato d’oro, or “creased gold” glass, which incorporates fine 24-carat gold leaf. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Venetian glass has been made for approximately the last 900 years. The art form was brought to the area by Byzantine craftsmen during the Middle Ages who had fled from Constantinople after it was overrun by crusaders. A Venetian guild was formed to establish and enforce strict regulations, including the confidentiality of trade secrets. By the end of the 13th century, Venetian glass was highly sought after throughout Europe. Fear of fires from the furnaces forced the industry out of Venice to the nearby island of Murano in 1292. By the 16th century, Venetian glass artisans had acquired tremendous control over the color and transparency of their glass and had mastered a variety of decorative techniques. They occupied an extremely high position in Venetian society and became known throughout the world for their marvelous and unparalleled creations. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1940 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 27\" diameter x 66\" high \n","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43492600283271,"sku":"30-2376","price":54500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/30-2376_1_25dd4c73-0dc0-4c3b-83bd-6261dc5bf1b3.png?v=1764592664"},{"product_id":"the-colosseum-micromosaic-by-luigi-gallandt","title":"The Colosseum Micromosaic by Luigi Gallandt","description":"Luigi A. Gallandt\u003cbr\u003e 19th Century | Italian \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cem\u003eThe Colosseum\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Signed \"Gallandt\" (lower right)\u003cbr\u003e Micromosaic with gilt wooden frame \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This highly important mid-19th century Roman micromosaic was crafted by the Italian artisan Luigi Gallandt. Monumental micromosaic panels of this giant scale are rare and extraordinarily valuable, and they were nearly always made either by special private commission or as papal gifts. Gallandt’s micromosaics are particularly prized for their high attention to detail and subtle handling of color. This example — a stunning veduta of the Colosseum — was once part of the famed Rosalinde and Arthur Gilbert Collection in the Victoria and Albert Museum (London). \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e A visit to the Colosseum was central to any Grand Tour itinerary in Rome, and souvenir micromosaics of the Roman ruin were incredibly popular with 19th-century Grand Tourists. This example, however, is in a class of its own, far surpassing the concept of the Grand Tour souvenir. Absolutely monumental in size and measuring nearly 6 feet wide, it would have been a special commission for a client of particular wealth and importance. Few micromosaics of the period achieve both the size and the extraordinary artistry of the present example, which can be counted among the great masterpieces of 19th-century Roman art. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e It is this awe-inspiring view that visitors would have first glimpsed of the monument when approaching from the Roman Forum. The Titus fountain is depicted in front of the towering ruin, while the arch of Constantine is depicted to the right. Though two-thirds of the Colosseum has been lost to the ravages of time, Gallandt successfully captures both unspoiled and ruinous elements of the façade, evoking both the grandeur and the history of this well-known site. Contemporary figures in 19th-century dress occupy the foreground, further emphasizing the monumentality of the monument. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The attention to detail and subtly of color and pattern that is achieved in the scene is unique to Gallandt. The artisan was particularly renowned for his ability to impart a realism and veracity in his works that far surpassed any other maker of his generation. Gallandt's private micromosaic workshop operated outside of the constraints of the Studio del Mosaico Vaticano. Situated in the center of the city near the Piazza di Spagna where most tourists stayed, Gallandt was well established and highly successful, eventually earning the titled \u003cem\u003eCavaliere\u003c\/em\u003e, the Italian equivalent of knighthood. His popularity allowed him to earn special commissions of large-scale micromosaics such as the present piece, the likes of which are rarely found on the market. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1850-1875 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Panel: 31 1\/8” high x 69 1\/2” wide\u003cbr\u003e Frame: 38 1\/4” high x 76 1\/2” wide \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Exhibited:\u003cbr\u003e Gilbert Collection, Permanent Display, Somerset House, London, 2000-2007 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e References:\u003cbr\u003e \u003cem\u003eMicromosaics: The Gilbert Collection\u003c\/em\u003e, London, 2000, by J. H. Gabriel, cat. no. 58, p. 117. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Provenance:\u003cbr\u003e Collection of Mrs. Loyce Mayfield, Mountain Crest, Alabama\u003cbr\u003e Sotheby-Parke-Bernet New York, The Contents of Mountain Crest, 10-11 June 1977, lot 236\u003cbr\u003e The Rosalinde and Arthur Gilbert Collection, London\u003cbr\u003e M.S. Rau, New Orleans, 2020","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43672875335815,"sku":"31-0483","price":1250000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-0483_1_08da793c-518c-4fbd-ba3f-c9757d933166.png?v=1767205743"},{"product_id":"saint-mary-magdalene-on-alabaster-with-pietre-dure-frame","title":"Saint Mary Magdalene on Alabaster with Pietre Dure Frame","description":"This incredibly rare 17th-century oil on alabaster depicts the Saint Mary Magdalene, rendered after Italian Baroque painter Guido Reni’s masterpiece of the same name. Saint Mary Magdalene gazes upward towards the heavens in a penitent pose, as two putti-like cherubs float above. Depicted with luxurious, long hair draped over her body — symbolizing the saint’s inherent sensuality — her outstretched hand rests on the iconic skull that faithfully accompanies her likeness in religious art. Surrounding this magnificent painting are superb pietre dure hardstone inlays of jasper, agate and lapis lazuli, mingled with Roman silver on an ebonized wood frame. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e One of his most popular subjects in the 1620s and 1630s, Mary Magdalene was something of an iconographic specialty for Reni, who executed various versions to please a public that prized them and continually requested them. Reni’s original 1633 Saint Mary Magdalene canvas on which this oil on alabaster is based was painted for Cardinal Antonio Santacroce and now resides in the Galleria Nazionale d'Arte Antica in Rome. A similar, smaller oil on canvas depicting Mary Magdalene predates this original to 1627 and was formerly housed in the Barberini collection in Rome. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Guido Reni was born in Bologna in 1575 and rose to be the most famous Italian painter of his generation. Though considered a master of the Baroque, Reni’s work showcases a singular classical style that made an indelible mark on the course of art. Active in Rome, Naples and his native Bologna, he became the dominant figure in the Bolognese School that emerged under the influence of early-Baroque master painter and printmaker Carracci. Through his career, Reni collected a robust roster of patrons who were Cardinals and other wealthy clergy of the Vatican papacy. Thus, the Baroque artist is best known for his prolific oeuvre of religious works, though he also had an affinity for mythological and allegorical subjects. His oils and frescoes can be found in the basilicas, churches and palaces of Rome, Naples and Bologna, including the Paoline Chapel of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome as well as the Aldobrandini wings of the Vatican. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Italian, 17th Century \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Frame: 13 3\/4” high x 12 3\/4” wide \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e References:\u003cbr\u003e \u003cem\u003eGuido Reni: L'Opera Completa\u003c\/em\u003e, Novara 1988, by S. Pepper, pp. 335-36, cat. no. 28 (illustrated) \n","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43873689305223,"sku":"31-0484","price":74500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-0484_1.png?v=1770664772"},{"product_id":"renaissance-cameo-pendant","title":"Renaissance Cameo Pendant","description":"The cameo at the center of this exceptional pendant is a stunning example of the art of gem engraving during the Renaissance. It likely dates to the early 17th century and features a biblical scene — the Sacrifice of Isaac — in the style of the Greco-Roman era. As the story goes, God challenged Abraham to sacrifice his only son, Isaac, as a sign of his faith. At the very last moment before Abraham killed his son, a messenger from God stayed his hand; the father and son then sacrificed a ram instead. This cameo depicts that final moment in the story. The central flaming altar is flanked by Abraham and Isaac preparing to sacrifice a ram, while the messenger of God stands in the left corner. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The carver brilliantly uses the natural layers of the stone to achieve the illusion of shadow and musculature on the figures. A second, smaller cameo is set at the top of the pendant, while a myriad of multi-colored gems, pearls and enamel adorns the 18K gold setting. A large Baroque pearl suspended from an enamel dragon finishes the design, which embodies the opulence and theatricality of jewels from the Renaissance age. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Cameos and intaglios were highly popular amongst wealthy connoisseurs in Renaissance Italy, and owning the finest pieces was the privilege of princes. Although they were often elaborately mounted for display alone, cameos were also frequently worn as pendants, surrounded by enameled and stone-set gold frames. Such pieces were particularly prized by the Medici and Lorraine families, many of which can now be seen at the National Archeological Museum in Florence. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Very few Renaissance cameos remain in existence and even fewer in such elaborate pendant settings. The present example is among these rarities, while others can be found in the British Royal Collection and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Cameo: Early 17th century \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Pendant: 9\" high x 5\" wide\u003cbr\u003e Modern 14K gold chain and clasp: 16\" length","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43873541718151,"sku":"30-8394","price":228500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/30-8394_1_3615a789-c3a4-4f4f-9a74-ebb25dd2eda3.png?v=1770666581"},{"product_id":"the-letter-by-andrea-landini","title":"The Letter by Andrea Landini","description":"Andrea Landini\u003cbr\u003e 1847-1935 | Italian  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cem\u003eThe Letter\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Signed “A. Landini” (lower right)\u003cbr\u003e Oil on canvas \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e A red-robed cardinal chuckles at the letter in his hand in this oil on canvas by the Italian painter Andrea Landini. The vibrantly hued piece illustrates the artist’s genius at rendering charming narratives in remarkable detail. Entitled \u003cem\u003eThe Letter\u003c\/em\u003e, the work is a superb example of Landini's technical virtuosity — from the finely carved and upholstered chair to the neoclassical painting in the background, every detail is meticulously depicted.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Such works satirizing the clergy would have been severely censured just a generation earlier. Yet, by the time Landini picked up the brush, the European public had grown discontent with the hypocrisy of the clergy, many of whom enjoyed lavish lifestyles. Cardinal paintings such as this became highly popular during the period, and Landini emerged alongside Georges Croegaert, Marcel Brunery and Jehan Georges Vibert as the leading painters of the genre. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Born in Florence in 1847, Andrea Landini trained at the Academy of Fine Arts in Florence, first under the animal painter Riccardo Pasquini and later with religious painter Antonio Ciseri. Landini quickly made a name for himself as a painter of portraits, attracting clients such as the Signora Guerrazzi of Livorno, the contessa Lavinia Bocca, the writer signora Elena Landini Ruffino and the Princess of Wales. While his portraits made him a success during his lifetime, today he is best remembered for his highly detailed genre scenes, and particularly his Cardinal paintings such as this. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Canvas: 18 1\/4\" high x 15\" wide\u003cbr\u003e Frame: 23 1\/4\" high x 20 1\/2\" wide","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41238364487815,"sku":"31-2429","price":74500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-2429_1_93a457da-a454-422d-8fc6-db4a762246a1.png?v=1720512721"},{"product_id":"masquerade-by-fortunato-galli","title":"Masquerade by Fortunato Galli","description":"Fortunato Galli\u003cbr\u003e 1835-1918 | Italian \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cem\u003eMasquerade\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Signed \"F. Galli FIRENZE\"\u003cbr\u003e White Carrara marble \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cem\u003eMasquerade\u003c\/em\u003e, a traditional yet playful composition by Fortunato Galli, reflects the realism and intricacy that defined Italian sculpture at the end of the 19th century. Magnificently carved, the monumental work captures a beautiful woman at a masquerade as she peels her mask from her face, revealing her secret identity. The virtuosity of the sculpture is breathtaking, from her delicate lace bodice to the hint of stockings that encase her shapely legs. Masterfully rendered, she represents the perfect marriage of classical beauty and a romantic sentiment that has come to define the work of this Italian master.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Born in Livorno on the west coast of Tuscany, Fortunato Galli spent most of his life in Florence, where he enjoyed a faithful following. The majority of his sculptures were religious subjects, which he crafted for the major Tuscan churches, including his principal work, his famed statue of Pope Gregory VII that resides in the Duomo in Florence. His decorative sculptures such as this were far more playful in style, capturing gypsies and beautiful women in charming narratives. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1883 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 18 1\/2\" wide x 20\" deep x 52 1\/2\" high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41238362259591,"sku":"31-2390","price":98500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-2390_1_105d9000-d556-46ca-b081-90aead2fdd02.png?v=1717921786"},{"product_id":"blue-and-gold-venetian-glass-perfume","title":"Blue and Gold Venetian Glass Perfume","description":"The variegated glass of this exceptional Venetian perfume bottle displays bold speckles of blue and gold. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Late 19th century \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 2\" wide x 3\/4\" deep x 3 1\/2\" high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41238355181703,"sku":"31-1950","price":1250.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-1950_1_2516bf5d-5889-4df1-b9cd-8540fe5c7668.png?v=1717921790"},{"product_id":"venetian-marbled-glass-scent-bottle","title":"Venetian Marbled Glass Scent Bottle","description":"Crafted of Venetian glass, this exceptional perfume bottle displays an elaborate, marbled pattern of reds, yellows, blues and golds. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Late 19th century \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 3\/4\" wide x 3\/4\" deep x 2 1\/2\" high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41238348005511,"sku":"31-1948","price":2450.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-1948_1.png?v=1717922104"},{"product_id":"marbled-venetian-glass-scent-bottle","title":"Marbled Venetian Glass Scent Bottle","description":"Muted colors create a lovely marbled look in this Venetian glass perfume. The diminutive scent bottle is finished with an elegant gilt stopper. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Late 19th century \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 2 1\/2\" wide x 3\/4\" deep x 3 1\/4\" high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41238349414535,"sku":"31-1947","price":2450.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-1947_1.png?v=1717921787"},{"product_id":"flowering-vine-venetian-glass-perfume","title":"Flowering Vine Venetian Glass Perfume","description":"Delicate flowers in whites and oranges sit against a green ground in this beautiful Venetian glass perfume bottle. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Late 19th century \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 3\/4\" diameter x 2 5\/8\" high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41238346268807,"sku":"31-1940","price":985.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-1940_1.png?v=1717921757"},{"product_id":"st-peters-square-italian-micromosaic-1","title":"St. Peter's Square Italian Micromosaic","description":"St. Peter's Square Italian Micromosaic\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1870 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This Italian micromosaic presents a meticulously detailed view of St. Peter’s Square and the Vatican, one of the most iconic architectural vistas of 19th-century Rome. Though at first glance it may appear to be a painting, this mosaic is comprised of hundreds of thousands of tiny glass tiles, or tesserae, each perfectly matched for color, size and placement. Every minuscule tile is painstakingly placed to exacting measures to create this magnificent scene portraying such details as clouds in the sky, flowing fountains, picturesque statues and people traversing St. Peter’s Square. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Micromosaics enjoyed great popularity among the ancient Romans, who decorated their homes with massive micromosaic pieces. The art of the micromosaic re-emerged during the 19th century, most notably in the workshops of the Vatican, finding favor among the surge of affluent tourists making their requisite Grand Tour across Europe. Avid collectors of these incredible works included Napoléon and Josephine, Russian tsars and ancestors of the legendary de Medici family. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 11 3\/4\" high x 14\" wide","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40500317192327,"sku":"31-2842","price":24500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-2842_1.png?v=1780146914"},{"product_id":"perseus-by-ubaldo-gandolfi","title":"Perseus by Ubaldo Gandolfi","description":"Ubaldo Gandolfi\u003cbr\u003e 1728-1781 | Italian \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cem\u003ePerseus\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Terracotta \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The legendary Greek god Perseus is the subject of this elegant half-bust by Ubaldo Gandolfi, a major painter and sculptor from Bologna. The son of Zeus and Danaë, Perseus was the legendary founder of Mycenae and the Perseid dynasty, best remembered as the hero who vanquished the Gorgon Medusa. He is depicted here donning the Helmet of Hades (also known as the Cap of Invisibility), which was gifted to him by Athena to aid him in his quest to defeat the snake-haired Medusa and escape her sister. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Formed from terracotta, the bust is a significant work from this artist who worked primarily as a painter. Because Bologna lacks marble quarries, artists from the region worked in more readily available materials such as clay and terracotta. Giuseppe Mazza and Angelo Pìo, along with Gandolfi himself, excelled in the medium, creating highly detailed works from the moldable material. Other works in terracotta by the artist can be found in the Metropolitan Museum of Art (New York) and the church of San Giovanni (Monte, Bologna). \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Mid-18th century \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 15 1\/2\" high x 8 1\/2\" wide x 6\" deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43316892008583,"sku":"31-2772","price":34500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-2772_1_b8a0c10b-6ad2-40d1-b96e-eeb66eff1f2c.png?v=1760369249"},{"product_id":"temple-of-vespasian-and-titus-roman-micromosaic","title":"Temple of Vespasian and Titus Roman Micromosaic","description":"The ruins of the ancient Roman Temple of Vespasian and Titus are the subject of this Italian micromosaic. Crafted in intricate detail, the scene is composed of thousands of tiny glass tiles that have been painstakingly chosen and placed to create a painting-like effect. A bucolic landscape surrounds the ruins, lending a sense of romance to the scene that is further enhanced by the presence of a mother and child seated near the temple's columns. It is an extraordinary example of this ancient art form that experienced a surge in popularity in the 18th and 19th centuries. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Vespasian was the Roman Emperor from 69 AD to 79 AD and the founder of the Flavian dynasty, which ruled the empire for 25 years. This temple was constructed to honor Vespasian and his older son and successor Titus (ruled 79-81 AD); it was completed by Titus’ brother, Domitian, around 87 AD. Titus and Vespasian were each deified through the ceremony of apotheosis. Thus, tradition dictated that they be honored by Roman citizens and subjects as Roman deities. This imperial worship was as much a sign of allegiance to the emperor of Rome as it was a formal religion. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The temple suffered significant damage during medieval times, particularly circa 1300 under Pope Boniface VIII and in Pope Nicholas V's remodeling of the Forum. All that survives today is the podium's core, parts of the inner chamber, and the three Corinthian columns depicted in this classic micromosaic. The architrave surmounting the capitals displays the last few letters of an inscription, [R]ESTITVER[UNT] (meaning \"they restored\"), commemorating the restoration of the temple by Septimius Severus and his son, Caracalla, around 200 AD.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Late 19th century \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Micromosaic: 10 1\/2\" high x 12 5\/8\" wide\u003cbr\u003e Frame: 12 1\/2\" high x 14 3\/4\" wide","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43873807597703,"sku":"31-3659","price":68500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-3659_1.png?v=1770672650"},{"product_id":"gilt-bronze-and-marble-pedestal","title":"Gilt Bronze and Marble Pedestal","description":"This striking Italian pedestal features a column of richly colored and patterned Breccia Sanguine marble with a base of black marble. Crafted in a timeless classical style, this pedestal is completed by a gilt bronze Corinthian capital and oak leaf border plinth. As practical as it is elegant, the pedestal offers great versatility of display and conveys a sense of sophisticated luxury. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1860 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 7 1\/2\" square x 45 1\/2” high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41238339420295,"sku":"31-1844","price":9850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-1844_1.png?v=1717921779"},{"product_id":"louis-xiv-style-console-table","title":"Louis XIV-Style Console Table","description":"This Italian console table is exemplary of the grand architectural furnishings that were popular amongst the upper classes during the late 18th and early 19th century in both Italy and England. Carved with the opulent, weighty decoration that characterized the Baroque period, this table is masterfully crafted in the Louis XIV style. With a solid red marble top completing the design, this console would make a grand statement in the well-appointed home. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Certainly a special commission, the base is lavishly carved in stunning detail from a rich hardwood with traces of gilding. Acanthus leaves and floral swags curve around the base, while four beautiful maidens lend support to the tabletop. Other striking decorative elements include a lion’s mask and a shield surrounded by oak branches, a traditional symbol of strength, stability and nobility. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This console table perfectly illustrates the design conventions that dictated late 18th- and early 19th-century interiors. The console table reached the height of fashion during this period and was often considered more a part of the architecture than merely a piece of furniture. It was believed that no single element of the interior stood alone, with everything from upholstery to hardware serving to unify the room's design. A console table, then, was considered an integral part of the wall and the entire room. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1840 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 96\" wide x 21 1\/4\" deep x 42 3\/8\" high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41238593634439,"sku":"31-3395","price":84500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-3395_1_981b42c8-bd6a-4c80-b014-4cb0ac598a5d.png?v=1717922831"},{"product_id":"agate-grand-tour-obelisks","title":"Agate Grand Tour Obelisks","description":"These impressive Egyptian Revival obelisks are crafted of dynamically patterned agate. The rare 19th-century models were almost certainly made in Italy during the height of the Grand Tour when the fervor for all things ancient pervaded the decorative arts. Rich in neoclassical elegance yet possessing an exotic worldliness, pieces such as these were extremely popular as Grand Tour souvenirs among members of the British aristocracy. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Models influenced by the ancient world pervaded interior design and the decorative arts of the 19th century. Interest in Egyptian art was already high after Napoléon's 1798 campaign in Egypt, which led to an influx of Egyptian art and design into European culture. Adding to this momentum was Jean-François Champollion’s deciphering of hieroglyphs in 1822, as well as the installation of an obelisk in Paris in 1836. The excitement for Egyptian-style art and architecture continued to grow over the coming decades, and the style remains highly fashionable among both collectors and designers today. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1850 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 3 1\/2\" square x 12 1\/4\" high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41238640558215,"sku":"31-3791","price":12850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-3791_1_da7b7bed-c9c3-457d-94b5-32a5eef49597.png?v=1717922916"},{"product_id":"pietre-dure-by-giovanni-montelatici","title":"Pietre Dure by Giovanni Montelatici","description":"Giovanni Montelatici\u003cbr\u003e 1864-1930 | Italian \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cem\u003eThe Shopping Bill\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Pietre dure \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Composed by renowned Italian artist Giovanni Montelatici, this Florentine work of art depicts a humorous scene of a husband interrogating his wife about a shopping bill modeled after a work by Italian genre painter Pietro Saltini. While it has the appearance of a painting, the work is actually entirely composed of polished marble in place of paint. Each piece was carefully chosen for both its color and pattern to perfectly convey the mood and details of the scene, from the faux woodgrain on the shutters and stool to the contrasting light and shadow along the walls and table. Together, these luxurious marble pieces create a work of such cohesion as to have the perfect \u003cem\u003etrompe l'oeil\u003c\/em\u003e effect. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Few could afford such precious pictures crafted in stone, so \u003cem\u003epietre dure\u003c\/em\u003e artists created pieces such as this on a commission basis for only the most important clients. The most desirable works from this period display remarkable realism and intricacy in their execution, with a preference for rural subjects and natural landscapes. It was these kinds of works in which the Montelatici workshop specialized, making Giovanni a highly sought-after artisan in his day. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Montelatici is often credited with revitalizing the skill of \"painting\" in \u003cem\u003epietre dure\u003c\/em\u003e, an art that had fallen into a steady decline since the mid-19th century. In 1898, he went into business with Galileo Chini (d. 1957), an artist from Mugello, near Florence, and the two men exhibited jointly at the 1900 Paris Exposition Universelle, winning a gold medal for their large table inlaid with a scene of the Annunciation. Following the success in Paris, Montelatici established a large workshop, known as La Musiva, on the Via Arnolfo, appointing Chini as its artistic director. The business flourished during the early decades of the 20th century, when Montelatici was joined by his two sons, Mario and Alfonso, and when foreign buyers were plenty. Inspired by the paintings and subject matter of the Tuscan Macchiaiolo School and Southern Italian artists, production encompassed a wide variety of themes, with particular emphasis on scenes of domesticity and rural life. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e A comparable work by Montelatici of the same subject is featured in Anna Maria Massinelli’s book, \u003cem\u003ePainting in Stone\u003c\/em\u003e, p. 209. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1880 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Plaque: 11 7\/8\" high x 9 1\/2\" wide\u003cbr\u003e Frame: 19\" high x 16 5\/8\" wide","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43873827520647,"sku":"31-3805","price":39850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-3805_1_f2aa8f82-be31-44a5-bae0-cf4ccb8d8c0e.png?v=1772350319"},{"product_id":"pietre-dure-plaques-vis-a-vis-man-and-woman","title":"Pietre Dure Plaques, Vis á Vis Man and Woman","description":"Stunning in their intricacy, these Florentine works of art are not paintings, but rather superb examples of the intensive art of pietre dure. The charming duo captures the courtship between a young woman and her suitor in the style of such 19th-century costume painters as Adolphe-Alexandre Lesrel and Eugène von Blaas. Different kinds of polished marble and minerals are used in place of paint to create the scene, which uses the natural grain and color of the stones to create the perfect \u003cem\u003etrompe l'oeil\u003c\/em\u003e effect. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Plaque: 10 1\/4\" high x 5 1\/2\" wide\u003cbr\u003eFrame: 13\" high x 8 1\/4\" wide","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43873817460871,"sku":"31-3715","price":9850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-3715_1_fc275df1-90ba-4a37-b03d-4e2a115ab81c.png?v=1770672708"},{"product_id":"italian-pietre-dure-of-couple-by-c-b-gnudetti","title":"Italian Pietre Dure of Couple by C.B. Gnudetti","description":"An old man playfully pesters his wife while she attempts to mend a garment in this meticulously detailed pietre dure plaque. The genre subject is typical of the hardstone plaques that were popular during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly those produced by the Grand-Ducal workshops in Florence. The flawless workmanship is also reminiscent of the Florentine masters; by the late 16th century, Florence had emerged as the epicenter of the art of pietre dure, and its workshops quickly became famous for producing some of the most beautiful hardstone objects of the 16th through 20th centuries. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Due to the intricacy and time-consuming nature of the craft, pietre dure artisans had a very niche and high-wealth clientele. Few could afford such precious pictures crafted in stone, so pietre dure artists created pieces such as this on a commission basis for only the most important clients. The most desirable works from this period display remarkable realism and intricacy in their execution, with a preference for genre scenes such as this. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Signed “C.B. Gnudetti” \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Late 19th century \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Plaque: 8\" high x 10\" wide\u003cbr\u003e Frame: 10 3\/8\" high x 12 3\/'8\" wide","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43873853866119,"sku":"31-3996","price":29850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-3996_1_37734d1d-d825-4911-92af-d47bf9b86de7.png?v=1772350484"},{"product_id":"clio-by-studio-of-romanelli","title":"Clio by Studio of Romanelli","description":"Studio of Raffaello Romanelli\u003cbr\u003e Early 20th Century | Italian \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cem\u003eClio\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Inscribed \"Executé sous la Direction du Prof. Romanelli\" (on base)\u003cbr\u003e Marble \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Clio, the muse of history from Greek mythology, is the subject of this compelling neoclassical marble sculpture that hails from the studio of Raffaello Romanelli. Romanelli was the son of the celebrated Pasquale Romanelli, a collaborator of Lorenzo Bartolini who assumed control of his studio following the master's death. He was renowned for his marble studies of the female form, and both his masterful eye and studio were inherited by his son Raffaello. Where Raffaello differed from his father was in his use of multi-colored marbles, a design choice that is displayed in the present work, which was executed by a student in his atelier.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The stark, pure white of this Clio is perfectly complemented by her robes carved from Siena marble, lending texture and visual interest to her overall form. Her tablet is inscribed \"\u003cem\u003eHistoria non assentationi, sed fidei veritatique componitur. Pinius\u003c\/em\u003e,\" a quote from the letters of Pliny the Younger that roughly translates to \"History is written not for display but in the interests of strict truth.\" The quote was the perfect choice for the mythological figure, who was heralded as \"the Proclaimer\" of historical truths. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Early 20th century \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 22 1\/4\" wide x 15\" deep x 52 1\/8\" high\u003cbr\u003e Base: 23\" wide x 23\" deep x 27 1\/4\" high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41238685614215,"sku":"31-3877","price":124500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-3877_1.png?v=1717923109"},{"product_id":"round-marbled-venetian-glass-perfume-bottle","title":"Round Marbled Venetian Glass Perfume Bottle","description":"This round perfume bottle displays the bold and colorful nature of Venetian glass. Brilliant oranges, reds, blues, whites and golds combine in a complex and playful marbling pattern. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Late 19th century \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 2 1\/4\" wide x 3\/4\" deep x 2 1\/2\" high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41238347415687,"sku":"31-1946","price":1250.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-1946_1.png?v=1717922047"},{"product_id":"pietre-dure-of-italian-genre-scene","title":"Pietre Dure of Italian Genre Scene","description":"Meticulously rendered in polished hardstones and marbles, this plaque captures an old peasant woman presenting a gift of two chickens to her priest. The scene is emblematic of the charming genre scenes favored by Italian pietre dure artisans.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The art of pietre dure developed from the ancient art of opus sectile, where materials were cut and inlaid into walls and floors to form a decorative pattern. The meticulous technique requires that fine marbles and stones be carefully and artfully inlaid into a stone base. The method was both expensive and time-consuming, requiring not only precious materials but also highly skilled craftsmen. As a result, true marble and stone pietre dure works such as this are very rare and highly collectible. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Late 19th century \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Plaque: 9 5\/8\" high x 12\" wide\u003cbr\u003e Frame: 10 3\/4\" high x 13 1\/8\" wide","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43873956692103,"sku":"31-4225","price":28850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-4225_1_06c5dbc7-e994-4c7e-a126-7f86488c53af.png?v=1772351200"},{"product_id":"isabella-deste-and-francesco-ii-gonzaga-majolica-busts-by-angelo-minghetti","title":"Isabella d'Este and Francesco II Gonzaga Majolica Busts by Angelo Minghetti","description":"These two busts, monumental in both their size and artistry, come from the renowned Italian majolica workshop of the famed Angelo Minghetti. Depicted are the Renaissance political and cultural leaders Marquess and Marchioness of Mantua, Francesco II Gonzaga and Isabella d'Este. The portraits achieve remarkable naturalism, and each bust displays elaborate hand-painted decoration. Nineteenth-century majolica is coveted for its intricate motifs and deep saturation of color, both qualities that distinguish these busts. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Francesco II Gonzaga and his wife Isabella d'Este were powerful political leaders in the Northern Italian city of Mantua in the 15th century, and Isabella was an important humanitarian and patron of the arts. When her husband was captured as a prisoner of war in 1509, she served as regent of Mantua during his absence and became a successful military leader and diplomat. Known as the “First Lady of the Renaissance,” she was well-educated and fashionable, and she supported some of the most notable artists of the era, including da Vinci, Raphael, Titian, Giorgione and many more. Some scholars have even speculated that she could be the sitter for the Mona Lisa.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Angelo Minghetti studied at the Accademia di Belle Arti di Bologna before founding his own ceramic workshop in Bologna in 1858, where he endeavored to recapture the art of 15th and 16th-century Italian majolica, particularly the Urbino ware. He is best known for his elaborately decorated majolica busts depicting Renaissance figures like the present pair. He found inspiration in the great terracotta sculptors of the Renaissance, such as Luca della Robbia and his colorful tin-glazed earthenware. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Beginning in 1869, Minghetti began exhibiting at the grand Universal Exhibitions of the late 19th century, including the 1873 Vienna World’s Fair, the Paris Exposition Universelle of 1878 and the 1883 National Exhibition of Fine Arts in Rome, among others. He was awarded several medals at these exhibitions, and his works were commended for their execution and decoration, which very closely resembled authentic Renaissance earthenware pieces. Today, the Victoria and Albert Museum (London) holds in its collection several majolica busts by Minghetti, and a majolica plaque by Minghetti resides in Oxford University’s Ashmolean Museum. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Signed “A.M.” \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1880 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Each 27 1\/4\" wide x 13 1\/2\" deep x 38 1\/8\" high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41347070722183,"sku":"31-3838","price":138500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-3838_1_9aff6ce9-ce93-4577-a382-4a4a12732087.png?v=1715329668"},{"product_id":"roberto-coin-diamond-bracelet","title":"Roberto Coin Diamond Bracelet","description":"This luxurious bracelet by Italian designer Roberto Coin features three strands of diamonds totaling approximately 3.40 carats, set in 18K white gold. This fresh and contemporary take on the classic line bracelet is elevated by Coin’s signature diamond “cento” cut comprised of 100 facets, allowing the stones to capture the like, unlike any other cut. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 7\" length","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42215076003975,"sku":"31-4636","price":16500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-4636_1.png?v=1741247829"},{"product_id":"bronze-statuette-of-moses-by-lorenzo-vaccaro","title":"Bronze Statuette of Moses by Lorenzo Vaccaro","description":"Lorenzo Vaccaro\u003cbr\u003e 1655-1706 | Italian \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cem\u003eMoses\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The figure of Moses is the subject of this compelling late Baroque bronze sculpture by celebrated Italian artist Lorenzo Vaccaro. Apprenticed to renowned sculptor-architects Cosimo Fanzago and Dionisio Lazzari, Vaccaro moved towards more sober and monumental works than the decorative architectural sculptures they were known for, as evidenced in the present work. The influence of his close friend, celebrated painter Francesco Solimena, is evident in his figures’ elegant poses and the fluidity of their ample robes. The torsion of the body, theatrical gesture and painstakingly elaborate embroidery of Moses’ robe demonstrates a mastery of both medium and execution. Though all of Vaccaro’s figures achieve a great elegance and fineness, his depiction of Moses is superbly profound. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Towards the end of his career, Vaccaro was commissioned to create marble figures of King David and Moses for the Jesuit Church of St. Francis Xavier in Naples. At the time of his sudden death in 1706, only \u003cem\u003eDavid\u003c\/em\u003e was nearly finished, so the Jesuits asked his son Domenico Antonio to complete the pair. This statue is most likely a preliminary studio work for this commission and would have become part of Lorenzo’s workshop for his pupils to consult as a model, then probably later sold as a memory in conjunction with the Jesuit commission. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Today, Vaccaro’s works grace significant ecclesiastical buildings in Naples, including the Duomo, the Church of S. Giovanni Maggiore, and the Church of the Certosa di San Martino. To find a Vaccaro piece outside of Europe is a rare and exciting discovery. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Late 17th\/early 18th century \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 13 1\/2\" high x 8 3\/4\" wide x 3 5\/8\" deep \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Literature:\u003cbr\u003e Ciechnowiecki, Andrew, “A Bozzetto by Lorenzo Vaccaro.” \u003cem\u003eThe Burlington Magazine\u003c\/em\u003e Vol. 121, No. 913, pp. 250-253. ","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41238812229767,"sku":"31-4758","price":44500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-4758_1_f314cb89-6a1b-47ac-b5e4-7f686f4ad1a1.png?v=1717923838"},{"product_id":"tete-de-cariatide-by-amedeo-modigliani","title":"Tête de cariatide by Amedeo Modigliani","description":"Amedeo Modigliani\u003cbr\u003e 1884-1920 | Italian \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cem\u003eTête de cariatide\u003cbr\u003e Head of Caryatid\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Signed “Modigliani” and numbered “1\/8” (near base)\u003cbr\u003e Bronze \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The figural works of the iconic modernist Amedeo Modigliani are known for their instantly recognizable style, and they are among the most coveted in the world of art collecting, with Modigliani ranking among the world’s ten most valuable artists of all time. This monumental bronze, conceived by the artist in 1910, demonstrates his mastery of sculpture. Sculpting was the artist’s self-proclaimed first and true passion — a fact sometimes overlooked due to the success of his paintings and the overwhelming rarity of his sculptures. His famed \u003cem\u003eTête\u003c\/em\u003e series from which this bronze hails stands as his most important sculptural output, with works recognized for their timeless quality and strong, stoic presence. \u003cem\u003eTête de cariatide\u003c\/em\u003e reflects these qualities and provides a compelling glimpse into Modigliani’s greatest artistic passion. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This bronze is an enlarged casting of a wooden sculpture — the only known sculpture that Modigliani carved in wood rather than stone. Commissioned posthumously by Modigliani’s daughter Jeanne alongside the Modigliani Institute, the bronze iteration here perfectly captures the rich woodgrain texture of Modigliani’s original carving and retains its careful compositional balance. Soulful and intense, it reflects the exaggerated yet elegant elongation of the artist’s figural paintings, which became his much sought-after signature style. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Modigliani’s interest in African and other non-Western art is well-documented. This bronze is reminiscent of a tribal mask or ancient deity, both due to its exaggerated features and the totemic appearance achieved by the work’s texture, meditative presence and sheer size. Yet the work also alludes to the artist’s Italian heritage and training. A \u003cem\u003ecaryatid\u003c\/em\u003e is a staple of classical architecture, an ornate column typically found on the façade of a temple that takes the form of a female figure, with the most famous examples being on the Acropolis of Athens. The present sculpture exudes the same striking, memorable quality. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Born in Livorno, Italy in 1884, Modigliani dreamed of becoming a sculptor from a young age when he first encountered the grand marbles of Michelangelo. He moved to Paris in 1906, but it was not until 1909 after meeting modernist sculptor Constantin Brancusi that he began carving figures. For a time, he devoted himself almost entirely to sculpting, completing very few paintings between 1911 and 1914 but producing several sketches and gouaches relating to his sculptural projects. Modigliani exhibited a series of his sculptures in the 1912 Salon d'Automne. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Among the reasons Modigliani’s work is so highly sought after is the fact that the artist died at the premature age of 35, limiting his entire lifetime production to under 400 total artworks. Within that number, his sculptures are exceedingly rare; he only created around twenty-six total, most of which are held in museums such as the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rauantiques.my.salesforce.com\/sfc\/p\/A0000000JY02\/a\/8X000000Mkwr\/_r4uxYiGjjJa8_gf3TQ_8yguH7YnCN6LUqZNokwL0Hg\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eMuseum of Modern Art (New York), the Metropolitan Museum of Art (New York) and the Tate Gallery (London).\u003c\/a\u003e Modigliani suffered from tubercular meningitis his entire life, which ultimately limited his ability to continue to pursue the physical and laborious art of sculpting, emphasizing this bronze’s importance and rarity with the artist's oeuvre.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The other editions of this series can be found in public collections worldwide, including Morocco, Saudi Arabia and the exterior of the Casa Natale Modigliani in Rome, which houses the Modigliani Institut archives. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Conceived in 1910. Posthumous, contemporary casting circa 2006. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Bears the foundry mark of Paolo Olmeda as well as the artist’s signature and edition number “1\/8” \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/landing.rauantiques.com\/modigliani-insights\/\" target=\"new\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eSee auction comparables and market data\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 24\" wide x 34\" deep x 90\" high\u003cbr\u003e Base: 35 3\/4\" wide x 45 3\/4\" deep x 28\" high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44422086721671,"sku":"31-4791","price":1850000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-4791_1.png?v=1775582550"},{"product_id":"pietre-dure-plaque-of-ancient-artisan-by-alberto-menegatti","title":"Pietre Dure Plaque of Ancient Artisan by Alberto Menegatti","description":"A young man clad in classical robes paints an amphora vase as an attractive admirer observes him in this magnificent pietre dure plaque by Florentine artisan Alberto Menegatti. The work is emblematic of the charming scenes of rural life that were favored by Italian pietre dure artists. The superlative quality and beauty of the stone specimens utilized to create the composition distinguish this piece, and the artist’s ingenious use of the natural striations and inclusions in his stones allows him to convey texture and shadow to brilliant effect. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The art of pietre dure developed from the ancient art of opus sectile, where materials were cut and inlaid into walls and floors to form a decorative pattern. The meticulous technique requires that fine marbles and stones be carefully and artfully inlaid into a stone base. Both expensive and time-consuming, the art of pietre dure requires not only precious materials but also highly skilled craftsmen. As a result, true marble and stone examples such as this are very rare and highly collectible. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This work is featured on page 207 of Anna Maria Massinelli’s book, \u003cem\u003ePainting in Stone\u003c\/em\u003e. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Signed \"A. Menegatti\" (upper right) \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Early 20th century \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Plaque: 19 7\/8\" high x 14 1\/8\" wide\u003cbr\u003e Frame: 24\" high x 17 7\/8\" wide","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43873683734663,"sku":"31-0257","price":38500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-0257_1_7c0d65f2-fbf7-4351-b9a1-1de97f499e3e.png?v=1770667564"},{"product_id":"pietre-dure-plaque-with-lion-by-tito-francolini","title":"Pietre Dure Plaque with Lion by Tito Francolini","description":"This extraordinary Florentine work of art has the appearance of a painted scene, but upon closer inspection is revealed to be a superb example of the art of \u003cem\u003epietre dure\u003c\/em\u003e. Composed by Tito Francolini, the piece depicts a scene of a lion attacking a snake in the desert composed entirely of polished hardstone in place of paint. This composition is particularly impactful, with each piece of stone carefully chosen for both its color and pattern to perfectly convey the drama and movement of the scene. The dynamism of Francolini's choice of stones, including onyx, colored marbles and lapis lazuli, and the precision of their cuts make it a true masterpiece. These and other hardstones come together to create a work of such cohesion as to have the perfect \u003cem\u003etrompe l'oeil\u003c\/em\u003e effect. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Due to the intricacy and time-consuming nature of the craft, pietre dure artisans like Francolini had a very niche and high-wealth clientele. Few could afford such precious pictures crafted in stone, so pietre dure artists created pieces such as this on a commission basis for important clients. The most desirable works from this period display remarkable realism and intricacy in their execution, with a preference for rural subjects and natural landscapes, all qualities referenced in the present work. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The art of \u003cem\u003epietre dure\u003c\/em\u003e developed from the ancient art of \u003cem\u003eopus sectile\u003c\/em\u003e, where materials were cut and inlaid into walls and floors to form a decorative pattern. Florentine craftsmen revived the art during the Renaissance, and the first known hardstone workshop was established by the Medici family in 1588. Quickly growing in popularity, the art was also practiced in courts throughout Europe, most especially in the courts of Naples, Madrid, Prague and Paris. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This work is featured on page 20 of Anna Maria Massinelli’s book, \u003cem\u003ePainting in Stone\u003c\/em\u003e. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Signed and dated 1900 (en verso) \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Plaque: 8 3\/4\" high x 12 5\/8\" wide\u003cbr\u003e Frame: 14 5\/8\" high x 18 1\/4\" wide","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44518927204487,"sku":"31-4937","price":48500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-4937_1.png?v=1777556188"},{"product_id":"grand-ducal-pietre-dure-console-tables","title":"Grand Ducal Pietre Dure Console Tables","description":"Among the most beautiful examples of hardstone artistry that have ever entered our collection, these important Grand Ducal pietre dure console tables are in a class all their own. Their powerful architectural elegance, impressive size and rarity make them two of the finest hardstone masterpieces ever created and quite possibly the greatest pair of pietre dure tables in existence. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e With their naturalistically rendered flowers and birds, these tabletop panels showcase the particularly fine quality craftsmanship of the Grand Ducal workshops in Florence during the first quarter of the 17th century. Grand Duke Ferdinando I de Medici, one of the most important personages in the annals of art history, established the Grand Ducal Workshop in 1588. The workshop specialized in the art of pietre dure developed from the ancient art of \u003cem\u003eopus sectile\u003c\/em\u003e, giving rise to the most luxurious and detailed examples of hardstone artistry ever produced. Its patrons were the Popes and Royals of Europe, and the quality of the objects produced in the workshop is without equal. Typically, because of the high level of workmanship the art form requires, pietre dure plaques were crafted in small sizes. The great majority of known examples of pietre dure are a fraction of the size of our grand tables. The combination of pietre dure and extensive use of other rare decorative hardstones such as lapis lazuli and pietra paesina or “ruin marble” meant that these tabletops were surely produced for a wealthy collector.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The tables are further distinguished by their superbly carved bases by Andrea Brustolon, known as the “Michelangelo of wood.” Brustolon was a Venetian wood sculptor known for his exuberant and intricate Baroque furniture. His high Baroque style was influenced by his years studying in Rome, where he was exposed to the sculpture of Gian Lorenzo Bernini. Crafted in the early 18th century, these bases display Brusolon’s unmatched talent for both figural and foliate work, combining cupids, masks and oversized scrolling vines for a grand, ornate effect. Similar furnishings by Brustolon are held in museums worldwide, including the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rauantiques.my.salesforce.com\/sfc\/p\/A0000000JY02\/a\/8X000000MmIc\/hATOPMj3vvix4aSxXpzENGf7Wzsj31QRDHUqn0WI2q0\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eVictoria \u0026amp; Albert Museum, the National Museum of Scotland and the Metropolitan Museum of Art\u003c\/a\u003e, while the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rauantiques.my.salesforce.com\/sfc\/p\/A0000000JY02\/a\/8X000000MmGK\/pi4g67_lTMUCO_HZOtN9.urGr0VumK1SicrNHEyVE70\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCa' Rezzonico Museum\u003c\/a\u003e in Venice features an entire room dedicated to the sculptor. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e For approximately 250 years, these tables were part of the famed Stoneleigh Abbey collection owned by the Lord Leigh family. This renowned English country estate inspired Jane Austen to write Mansfield Park. Lord Leigh eventually sold the tables at Christie’s London in 1962, and the pair have stayed in the collection of the same Florentine family who purchased them from Christie's until we recently acquired them. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Our tables are prominently pictured in the important \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rauantiques.my.salesforce.com\/sfc\/p\/A0000000JY02\/a\/8X000000Mlwj\/SnYKYtJOxkQjno_2LYbtxflCiHCpMR5MEW7Mge.lVVs\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eSaul Levy book\u003c\/a\u003e Il Mobile Veneziano del Settencento. The pietre dure plaques date circa 1625-1650. The decorative tops likely would have originally been sold with a pair of plain stone columns to display them, and Lord Leigh would have commissioned the custom bases from Brustolon circa 1714 when he added the impressive four-story fifteen-bay Baroque West Wing to Stoneleigh Abbey. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e A similar single Grand Ducal tabletop is in the United Kingdom’s \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rauantiques.my.salesforce.com\/sfc\/p\/A0000000JY02\/a\/8X000000Mm9x\/wVCGXH9l4t2lELOxw.Jtdy_bdrUGlALc0DGJG3SIrZc\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eNational Trust Collection\u003c\/a\u003e, and a smaller tabletop resides in \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rauantiques.my.salesforce.com\/sfc\/p\/A0000000JY02\/a\/8X000000MmHX\/5DAxJGhxQkg_NFTfjITvBYqJQ82GWykmWABYTM8z0II\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eBuckingham Palace\u003c\/a\u003e. The flower and bird panels in our examples relate to the famous Badminton Cabinet, also crafted in the Grand Ducal workshops. The Badminton Cabinet became the highest-priced piece of furniture to ever sell at auction in 1990 when it sold for $16.59 million. It again set the record in December 2004, this time for $36 million, meaning it simultaneously held both the first and second place records for the highest auction prices ever for any pieces of furniture. To find a pair of objects featuring this level of artistry in hardstone and wood carving, crafted by such notable artisans, of such size and intricacy, that also hail from a titled estate is nothing short of spectacular. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Pietre dure tops: circa 1625-1650\u003cbr\u003e Bases: circa 1714 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Each table 61 1\/4\" wide x 39\" deep x 36\" high \n","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43672926027911,"sku":"31-5217","price":3450000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-5217_1.png?v=1767200809"},{"product_id":"cavalier-king-charles-spaniel-micromosaic-brooch","title":"Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Micromosaic Brooch","description":"This charming Victorian-era micromosaic brooch is a wonder of meticulous craftsmanship and intricate design. Depicting a friendly Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, it is designed after a micromosaic plaque by Antonio Aguatti that now resides in the Victoria \u0026amp; Albert collection. This image was a popular one among micromosaic artists of the 19th century. For Victorians, the image of the dog represented love and fidelity, making brooches like this appropriate gifts for romantic partners. Set in 18K yellow gold. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Micromosaic jewelry reached the height of fashion during the 19th century when affluent Europeans making their Grand Tour throughout the continent brought these pieces back as souvenirs of their journey. Mainly crafted in the Vatican workshops in Italy, these pieces were works of skillful craftsmanship and are highly coveted by collectors today.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1850 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 2\" wide x 1 3\/4\" high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43873904656519,"sku":"31-4087","price":19850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-4087_1_21008459-eb3c-40ab-98c3-97644a7bb0fb.png?v=1772350703"},{"product_id":"pomellato-gold-link-necklaces","title":"Pomellato Gold Link Necklaces","description":"This matching set of two 18K yellow gold necklaces by luxury Italian jeweler Pomellato features an intriguing link design. The gold is twisted into an interlocking pattern, creating depth and visual interest within the pair. Its ingenious woven pattern allows the necklaces to bend around the neck and collarbones, lending them a serpentine beauty and supple comfort.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 17\" and 19\" length","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42549667266695,"sku":"31-5938","price":58500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-5938_1_27806510-9f04-4f35-bd15-3ad9db06f975.png?v=1744133205"},{"product_id":"19th-century-italian-giltwood-mirror","title":"19th-Century Italian Giltwood Mirror","description":"The exquisite details of this hand-carved Italian giltwood mirror are matched in grandeur by its notable size. Nearly 3 feet tall by 3 feet wide, this mirror is an extraordinary feast for the eyes. Also known as a “glace en bois doré,” this 18th-century sensation features many hallmarks of classic Rococo design. The elaborate giltwood frame is carved with scrolling acanthus leaves and flowering vines. Dazzling in scale and detail, this mirror is a triumph of Rococo aesthetics. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1800 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 37\" high x 32\" wide x 3\" deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42629101125767,"sku":"31-3318","price":12850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-3318_1.png?v=1746574010"},{"product_id":"micromosaic-plaque-of-the-roman-forum","title":"Micromosaic Plaque of the Roman Forum","description":"This impressive micromosaic shows a panoramic view of the Roman Forum, the epicenter of ancient Rome's religious, judicial and commercial life. Intricately crafted from perfectly placed pieces of stone and glass, the mosaic captures some of the most important monuments of the ancient city center. The imposing facade of the Temple of Saturn stands to the right, and the Temple of Castor and Pollux, Arch of Septimius Severus and the Central Piazza are all visible. Executed with an exceptional level of detail, it is a truly outstanding example of the art of micromosaic. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The Roman Forum is regarded as one of the most important remaining ancient sites in the world. Yet, it was not until the early 19th century that the process of clearing the Forum after centuries of neglect began in earnest. Soon thereafter, the Forum quickly became a must-see destination for wealthy travelers on their Grand Tour, and this micromosaic captures two of these visitors relaxing among the ruins. In fact, the plaque itself was almost certainly created as a souvenir from a Grand Tour enjoyed by a well-to-do traveler; it is a beautiful reminder of the grandeur of ancient Rome. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 19th century \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 2 1\/4\" high x 3 3\/8\" wide x 1\/8\" deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43874254061703,"sku":"31-6599","price":16850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-6599_1_ceaf2dc5-12ed-4489-9076-bf684d359943.png?v=1772352361"},{"product_id":"piccadilly-circus-by-fortunino-matania","title":"Piccadilly Circus by Fortunino Matania","description":"Fortunino Matania\u003cbr\u003e 1881-1963 | Italian \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cem\u003ePiccadilly Circus\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Signed “Matania” (center, on bus)\u003cbr\u003e Watercolor and gouache on paper \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This exceptional watercolor and gouache composition by famed Italian artist Fortunino Matania exudes the energy and dynamism for which the artist is revered. Entitled \u003cem\u003ePiccadilly Circus\u003c\/em\u003e, Matania’s canvas captures the very essence of London in the early 20th century, when fashion, art and culture flourished with boundless energy. Matania depicts the historic thoroughfare in the evening, as vehicles and pedestrians alike traverse the square.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e With splashes of color and a keen eye for detail and fashion, Matania crafts a nostalgic narrative, documenting an evening in the busy Piccadilly Circus in downtown London. The streets are aglow with the golden light of lanterns and storefronts, contributing to the romance of the setting in the bustling city center. In a whimsical twist, the artist has rendered a number of iconic and important historical figures into the painting, including King George V, well-dressed and smoking a cigar near the center of the painting. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Born to a family of painters in Naples in 1881, Fortunino Matania is renowned today as a colorist and illustrator that produced countless iconic Also known for his paintings of World War I and trench warfare, his luminous palette and creative range garnered the young artist. At the age of 20, he began working in Paris for \u003cem\u003eL’Illustration Française\u003c\/em\u003e, and beginning in 1908 he regularly exhibited at the Royal Academy. He was elected a member of the Royal Institute of Painters in Water Colours in 1917, and his illustrations and paintings were published widely including \u003cem\u003eIllustrated London News, London Magazine, Nash’s, Printer’s Pie\u003c\/em\u003e among others. His works are recognized for their narrative depth and documentarian quality and remain widely prized by collectors today. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Early 20th century \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Paper: 13 3\/8\" high x 20 3\/4\" wide\u003cbr\u003e Frame: 22 3\/4\" high x 29 3\/4\" wide x 1 5\/8\" deep \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Literature:\u003cbr\u003e P. \u0026amp; V. Berko, \u003cem\u003e19th Century European Virtuoso Painters\u003c\/em\u003e, Knokke 2011, p. 509, illustration p. 228.","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41913601130631,"sku":"31-6871","price":68500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-6871_1_760b5219-53f5-485f-b7f6-882ccd019eb1.png?v=1726266495"},{"product_id":"tiffany-co-woven-gold-bracelet","title":"Tiffany \u0026 Co. Woven Gold Bracelet","description":"Featuring an enchanting woven design that moves elegantly across the wrist, this gold bracelet was designed by Buccellati for Tiffany \u0026amp; Co. Combining the warmth of 18K yellow gold with the cool tones of 18K white gold, the bi-color bracelet showcases the expert craftsmanship and discerning eye of Tiffany \u0026amp; Co. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Founded in 1919, the Buccellati jewelry house is famed for creating luxurious, Renaissance-inspired jewelry. Drawing upon period techniques to craft jewelry in a lacy, textural style, the Buccellati name is one of the most recognized jewelers in the world. Their collaboration with the inimitable Tiffany \u0026amp; Co. produced exquisite creations, such as this gold bracelet. Tiffany's tradition of excellence continues to this day, and both antique and contemporary Tiffany jewelry remains highly coveted. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Stamped \"Tiffany \/ Italy \/ 18K\" \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 7 1\/2\" length","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43874791096455,"sku":"31-7385","price":36500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-7385_1.png?v=1772359184"},{"product_id":"pietre-dure-of-the-morning-bath","title":"Pietre Dure of The Morning Bath","description":"This incredible Italian \u003cem\u003epietre dure\u003c\/em\u003e is made up of a show-stopping variety of hardstones, creating a magnificent narrative scene. The hardstones recreate the composition of a popular painting by Benjamin Vautier entitled \u003cem\u003eThe Morning Bath\u003c\/em\u003e. Vautier's painting was reproduced in several print materials, but no other reproductions match the astounding meticulous details of this breathtaking \u003cem\u003epietre dure\u003c\/em\u003e. Rendered in polished hardstones and marble, this plaque captures the charming scene of early morning bath time as a baby stands wobbly in a wooden tub. The scene is emblematic of the charming genre scenes favored by Italian \u003cem\u003epietre dure\u003c\/em\u003e artisans.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The art of \u003cem\u003epietre dure\u003c\/em\u003e developed from the ancient art of opus sectile, where materials were cut and inlaid into walls and floors to form a decorative pattern. The meticulous technique requires that fine marble specimens and stones be carefully and artfully inlaid into a stone base. The method was both expensive and time-consuming, requiring not only precious materials but also highly skilled craftsmen. As a result, true marble and stone \u003cem\u003epietre dure\u003c\/em\u003e works such as this are very rare and highly collectible. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 19th century \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Plaque: 11 5\/8\" high by 15 5\/8\" wide\u003cbr\u003e Frame: 20 1\/4\" high by 24\" wide by 2 1\/8\" deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43874307702919,"sku":"31-6722","price":39850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-6722_1_c2bec96c-0c99-450c-9783-b009411d31b7.png?v=1772352701"},{"product_id":"micromosaic-plaque-of-courting-scene","title":"Micromosaic Plaque of Courting Scene","description":"A friar stares disapprovingly at the gentlemen overtly flirting with a lady in this rare, humorous and marvelously constructed Italian micromosaic plaque. The amusing scene, influenced by genre painters of the Dutch Golden Age, offers an intrinsic charm and wit. Stunning \u003cem\u003eobjets d'art\u003c\/em\u003e, micromosaics such as this were created by gifted artisans as mementos for wealthy patrons taking their Grand Tour of Europe: the once-requisite rite of passage for young gentlemen of the upper class. This work is composed of thousands of tiny glass tiles, or tesserae, painstakingly placed upon a black marble backing to exacting measures, creating an illusionary effect. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Micromosaics trace their origins to ancient Rome, where the artworks were renowned for their intricate beauty and complexity. These works utilized tiny glass and stone tesserae to create highly detailed images, effectively creating what we now know as the art form of micromosaic. In 19th-century Italy, the art of micromosaic resurfaced, particularly in the workshops of the Vatican. Wealthy aristocrats traveling through Italy on their Grand Tour were particularly enamored with these exquisite works. The creation of micromosaics was a costly endeavor, requiring not only precious materials but also highly skilled craftsmen. As such, authentic 19th-century micromosaics such as this piece are exceedingly rare and were only available to the wealthiest European tourists. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1860 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 10 7\/8\" high x 13\" wide x 5\/8\" deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43874554577031,"sku":"31-7270","price":39850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-7270_1.png?v=1772355604"}],"url":"https:\/\/rauantiques.com\/collections\/6-26-italian-collection.oembed","provider":"M.S. Rau","version":"1.0","type":"link"}