Sculpture, Set Tantalus porta liquori del 1899 - 40 cm - Silver plated brass - 1899

Here is a magnificent and imposing liquor set, "Tantalus," an absolute masterpiece of late 19th-century artistic craftsmanship [1.12]. The object stands out for its exceptional build quality and a total weight of no less than 4.8 kg, testament to the solidity and value of the materials used [1.1]. The supporting frame is entirely handmade in artistic foundry work using the earth casting technique. It is made of heavy solid brass originally silver-plated by galvanic process. It features a rich and elaborate hand-chiseled decoration with mythological motifs in Neo-Baroque/Rococo style: the long sides depict joyful putti with garlands of flowers and chariots, while the short sides host splendid sculptures of fauns/satyrs. The tall, slender central handle is embellished with acanthus leaves modeled hot. The metal retains its precious original dark patina of time (silver sulfide in the recesses) which has never been removed or polished. The set houses two square bottles in fine Murano crystal. The outer surface is adorned with a superb and rich raised decoration executed entirely by hand using the historic "Three Fires" technique, employing pure seed gold brushed on and vitreous enamels. At the bottom of the glass there is a pointed engraving made by the master glassmaker at the time of production, certifying its Venetian origin and the exact year of manufacture: "1899".Conditions: Excellent period conditions, totally original and intact. The crystal shows no chipping or cracks. The exterior gold and enamels are magnificently preserved.Material: Heavy solid brass, hand-worked, and Murano crystal with seed gold.Weight: 4800 g [1.1]Dimensions: Height 40 cm | Width 23 cm | Depth 12 cm.Color: Gold, Silver, Transparent.Shipping method: The item will be professionally and obsessively packed (each bottle and stopper protected individually with ample bubble wrap and separate boxes inside the main package). Tracked and insured shipping.