Centrepiece - Alabaster - Great Sculpted XIX
Starting bid
€ 1
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Expert
Selected by Constance Rousseau
Master marquetry craftswoman with 4 years' expert experience. Trainee auctioneer at Sotheby's Paris.
Estimate € 170 - € 200
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Description from the seller
Monumental Lucent-White Alabaster Centerpiece Hand-Carved – 19th Century – Masterpiece of Italian Ornamental Art
Extraordinary and rare natural alabaster centerpiece dating from the 19th century, entirely hand-carved by skilled artisans specialized in ornamental stone work. A piece that immediately impresses with the quality of the material, the refinement of execution, and the exceptional translucence that only the finest alabaster can offer.
The large circular bowl is supported by an elegant classical turned foot and features a richly decorative external band composed of stylized leaves deeply carved, each made by hand. The undulating rim creates a refined plastical play that gives the whole piece movement, depth, and a strong visual presence.
What makes this specimen particularly fascinating is the extraordinary quality of the alabaster. When lit from behind, the material reveals a spectacular network of natural veins that branch like roots, lightning, or branches of an ancient tree, creating a magical and deeply suggestive effect. The backlit photographs clearly show the rare translucency of the stone, a highly sought-after characteristic among enthusiasts and collectors of historic alabaster objects.
The interior of the bowl shows ivory, cream, and honey natural tones, with veins running through the entire stone mass. Each surface tells millions of years of geological formation, turning this object not merely into a decorative element but into a true natural sculpture shaped by human hands.
The workmanship clearly highlights the 19th-century artisanal craft, with manual modeling, deep carving, and a finish executed according to the tradition of Italian workshops specializing in ornamental alabaster.
In terms of quality, dimensions, and aesthetic impact, this is a highly prestigious object, ideal as a monumental centerpiece, console ornament bowl, display piece in a historic residence, or a prestigious decorative item for classical and contemporary high-end interiors.
Dimensions: diameter 28 cm; height 10.5 cm; foot diameter 13 cm.
Condition: very good. There are light, natural signs of aging consistent with its age and use. The alabaster retains a beautiful natural patina and extraordinary internal veining. The piece is stable, authentic, and particularly decorative.
Our interior architect-designer recommends placing this important centerpiece near a natural or artificial light source. Backlighting dramatically enhances the translucency of the alabaster, transforming the stone into a true work of light and matter.
Photos are an integral part of the description. The backlit images were taken solely to showcase the extraordinary quality and translucency of natural alabaster. Guaranteed careful packaging by industry professionals. The item will be protected with professional materials and shipped with special care due to the fragile and precious nature of the artifact.
Seller's Story
Gaudíno Collection – Object selected
Born from careful and ongoing research of authentic objects, selected for quality, history, and presence.
The collection brings together items capable of crossing time, chosen to dialogue with space and enhance it.
Each piece is not merely presented, but selected as a distinctive sign, destined for settings with character.
Particular attention is given to packaging, made according to professional standards to guarantee maximum protection during transport.
We use recycled materials, with respect for the environment, without compromising safety.
Translated by Google TranslateMonumental Lucent-White Alabaster Centerpiece Hand-Carved – 19th Century – Masterpiece of Italian Ornamental Art
Extraordinary and rare natural alabaster centerpiece dating from the 19th century, entirely hand-carved by skilled artisans specialized in ornamental stone work. A piece that immediately impresses with the quality of the material, the refinement of execution, and the exceptional translucence that only the finest alabaster can offer.
The large circular bowl is supported by an elegant classical turned foot and features a richly decorative external band composed of stylized leaves deeply carved, each made by hand. The undulating rim creates a refined plastical play that gives the whole piece movement, depth, and a strong visual presence.
What makes this specimen particularly fascinating is the extraordinary quality of the alabaster. When lit from behind, the material reveals a spectacular network of natural veins that branch like roots, lightning, or branches of an ancient tree, creating a magical and deeply suggestive effect. The backlit photographs clearly show the rare translucency of the stone, a highly sought-after characteristic among enthusiasts and collectors of historic alabaster objects.
The interior of the bowl shows ivory, cream, and honey natural tones, with veins running through the entire stone mass. Each surface tells millions of years of geological formation, turning this object not merely into a decorative element but into a true natural sculpture shaped by human hands.
The workmanship clearly highlights the 19th-century artisanal craft, with manual modeling, deep carving, and a finish executed according to the tradition of Italian workshops specializing in ornamental alabaster.
In terms of quality, dimensions, and aesthetic impact, this is a highly prestigious object, ideal as a monumental centerpiece, console ornament bowl, display piece in a historic residence, or a prestigious decorative item for classical and contemporary high-end interiors.
Dimensions: diameter 28 cm; height 10.5 cm; foot diameter 13 cm.
Condition: very good. There are light, natural signs of aging consistent with its age and use. The alabaster retains a beautiful natural patina and extraordinary internal veining. The piece is stable, authentic, and particularly decorative.
Our interior architect-designer recommends placing this important centerpiece near a natural or artificial light source. Backlighting dramatically enhances the translucency of the alabaster, transforming the stone into a true work of light and matter.
Photos are an integral part of the description. The backlit images were taken solely to showcase the extraordinary quality and translucency of natural alabaster. Guaranteed careful packaging by industry professionals. The item will be protected with professional materials and shipped with special care due to the fragile and precious nature of the artifact.
Seller's Story
Gaudíno Collection – Object selected
Born from careful and ongoing research of authentic objects, selected for quality, history, and presence.
The collection brings together items capable of crossing time, chosen to dialogue with space and enhance it.
Each piece is not merely presented, but selected as a distinctive sign, destined for settings with character.
Particular attention is given to packaging, made according to professional standards to guarantee maximum protection during transport.
We use recycled materials, with respect for the environment, without compromising safety.
Translated by Google TranslateDetails
Era
1400-1900
Weight
4.15 g
Title additional information
Great Sculpted XIX
Number of objects
1
Country of origin
Italy
Material
Alabaster
Condition
Good condition - used with small signs of ageing
Height
10.5 cm
Width
28 cm
Depth
28 cm
Estimated period
1850-1900
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