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Learn MoreBlue John Neoclassical Tazza
- Rare Derbyshire Blue John forms this impressive and exceptionally rare 19th-century tazza
- This tazza displays the unique coloration and crystalline layers for which Blue John is so loved
- Such large examples of Blue John are nearly impossible to find on the market today
- Other examples can be found in the stately British estates of Chatsworth and Hardwick, among others
- Get complete item description here
$24,500
Item No.
31-9136
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Description
This impressively statuesque 19th-century tazza is crafted from a stunning example of Derbyshire Blue John, one of the rarest and most coveted minerals in the world. The hardstone is highly prized thanks to its natural patterns and striations, as well as its gem-like color. The translucent crystalline layers of this particular example showcase the unique coloration for which Blue John is so loved, including vibrant shades of purple, blue, white, lilac and gold. This tazza's. . .
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This impressively statuesque 19th-century tazza is crafted from a stunning example of Derbyshire Blue John, one of the rarest and most coveted minerals in the world. The hardstone is highly prized thanks to its natural patterns and striations, as well as its gem-like color. The translucent crystalline layers of this particular example showcase the unique coloration for which Blue John is so loved, including vibrant shades of purple, blue, white, lilac and gold. This tazza's pedestal base features a stunning Neoclassical design evoking the imposing elegance of a Greco-Roman column.
The scarcity of this English stone makes a piece of this remarkable size nearly impossible to find, especially given that the incredible bowl on this tazza was exquisitely sculpted from a single piece of Blue John. Due to its popularity, the largest veins of Blue John had disappeared by the early 19th century, and only a small amount of the stone remains today. Because of its scarcity, most examples of Blue John furniture feature inset veneers of smaller specimens. By contrast, the large proportion and classical shape of this tazza places it among the most substantial, museum-quality ornamental wares ever made of the stone. Other examples can be found in the stately British estates of Chatsworth, Hardwick, Keddleston and Haddon, among others.
19th century
With base: 10 1/2" high x 5" diameter
The scarcity of this English stone makes a piece of this remarkable size nearly impossible to find, especially given that the incredible bowl on this tazza was exquisitely sculpted from a single piece of Blue John. Due to its popularity, the largest veins of Blue John had disappeared by the early 19th century, and only a small amount of the stone remains today. Because of its scarcity, most examples of Blue John furniture feature inset veneers of smaller specimens. By contrast, the large proportion and classical shape of this tazza places it among the most substantial, museum-quality ornamental wares ever made of the stone. Other examples can be found in the stately British estates of Chatsworth, Hardwick, Keddleston and Haddon, among others.
19th century
With base: 10 1/2" high x 5" diameter
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Specifications
| Period: | 19th Century |
| Origin: | England |
| Type: | Figurines/Statuettes |
| Style: | Neoclassical |
| Depth: | 5.0 in. (12.7 cm) |
| Width: | 5.0 in. (12.7 cm) |
| Height: | 10.5 in. (26.67 cm) |
Discover More
A Guide to Hardstones: A Material Coveted by the Rich and Famous from Antiquity to Today
For the elite of 18th- and 19th-century Europe, demonstrations of wealth and culture were requisite. These demonstrations were embodied in the decorative arts of the age, especially in the use of rare hardstones....
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Buy with Confidence
At M.S. Rau, we are committed to building a long-term, rewarding relationship with each and every client. That’s why your purchase is backed by our 125% guarantee.
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