RARE GRAND TOUR MODEL OF A ROMAN BATH

With architectural trapezophoron terminating in lion paw monopodiae
Italy, circa 1790-1820

23 7/8" W x 11 5/8" D [basin]
19" W x 10 1/2" D [base]
Total height 13 1/8"

verde antico marble (basin), giallo antico marble (base and supports)

Of unusual size, a distinct departure from the true "miniature" Roman Bath models typical of the Grand Tour market in the late 18th and early 19th century, the present model presents more accurately as a working basin. A work that would have been crafted for the most demanding of connoisseurs visiting the antiquities of Rome during the Regency era. The heavy basin is formed with a pleasant taper to the ovular form with a subtle outward flare to the lip around the edge. It was carved from a single block of verde antico marble with small holes drilled into the underside to allow the uprights to insert with iron rods. The fluted architectural uprights feature tapered and fluted columns in the center with loosely cabriole legs on either side terminating in animal paws modeled after those of Roman antiquity. For example, precedent for this knuckled animal paw follows loosely after the Roman paw executed in Egyptian marble held in the permanent collection of the Soane Museum in London (no. S55), an example that is not entirely unique. The paw was incorporated into many furniture objects of the French Empire and English Regency.

The basin is designed such that the uprights, basin and base all separate for safe movement.

Condition: A substantial loss to the lip of the basin at the corner, a smaller chip (2") at another corner on the same side, then smaller chips and "flea bites" around. Several large chips around the bottom edges of the basin. Discoloration to the base and supports, roughness and minor tiny flakes and chips.