Lot 81
81
A SET OF FOUR CARVED WOOD CAPITALS WITH FIGURES FROM THE JUDGEMENT OF PARIS
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A SET OF FOUR CARVED WOOD CAPITALS WITH FIGURES FROM THE JUDGEMENT OF PARIS

FLEMISH, CIRCA 1620-30

Details
A SET OF FOUR CARVED WOOD CAPITALS WITH FIGURES FROM THE JUDGEMENT OF PARIS
FLEMISH, CIRCA 1620-30
Depicting Paris, Juno, Minerva and Venus, each with an attribute, and each set within an architectural framework consisting of grotesque masks and scrolls; each on later integral wood plinths; losses to the rear of Juno and Venus and small sections replaced
16½ in. (42 cm.) high, each (4)
Special notice
No VAT will be charged on the hammer price, but VAT at 17.5% will be added to the buyer's premium which is invoiced on a VAT inclusive basis

Lot Essay

Paris was the son of Priam, King of Troy, but he was left to die on Mount Ida at his birth because it was foretold that he would cause the destruction of the city of Troy. Raised by shepherds, he was later to marry Oenone, daughter of a river god. At the wedding, Eris, goddess of strife, threw down a golden apple inscribed 'To the fairest' and it fell to Paris to choose between Juno, Minerva and Venus. Eventually he chose Venus, who promised him the love of any woman he desired, and praised the beauty of the daughter of the King of Sparta, Helen. His later abduction of Helen would spark the Trojan war and fulfill the prophecy made at his birth.

These beautifully carved architectural elements combine each of the main figures from the Judgement with scrolls and masks which show the influence of auricular silver. They may originally have functioned as part of an elaborate bannister or other architectural ensemble.

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