Renaissance Revival Bronze Ewers

This extraordinary pair of monumental bronze ewers are masterpieces of the Renaissance Revival style and a delightful celebration of Dionysian decadence. A bacchanal scene adorns the patenated midsection of the gilt ewers, presenting a festive motif of frolicking putti in the throes of euphoric celebration. Amidst the humorous tableau, an inebriated putto disguised as Dionysius rides atop a leashed panther, while another romps through the scene atop a ram.

The shimmering gilt neck and spout of the ewers are lavishly ornamented with foliage and grape vine, while an eagle and exuberant put to surmount the gracefully curved handle. The handle terminates at the body of the ewer with an intricately detailed rams head, while the circular base is cast with a decorative wreath.

These ewers, created in the mid-nineteenth century, are wonderful examples of the revival of interest in the Renaissance art form during that time. Archeological excavations and discoveries in Greece and Italy fueled the imagination of craftsmen throughout Europe, resulting in a resurgence of styles based on Classical and Renaissance forms and motifs. Classical themes, such as the Dionysian scene depicted here, provided subject matter for a number of nineteenth century artists, and the architectural elements and classical shapes of earlier times also experienced renewed popularity. The timeless classical elements of works from the Renaissance Revival retain their appeal today, and are highly collected.

Circa 1875

37 1/2” high x 18 1/2” wide x 11 1/2” deep