拍品專文
While characteristic in scale and execution of decorations in the 19th century, the decorative vocabulary on this pair of impressive jardinières is deeply rooted in Baroque furnishings of the 17th and 18th centuries. Of particular note are the figural bronze bases, which incorporate profuse C-scrolls and hairy-paw feet prevalent on bronze and giltwood stands preserved in both Italian private collections and the Capitoline Museum, Rome (see Il Mobile Barocco In Italia, Milan, 2000, pp 108-109).
Upon closer inspection of the bases, traces of gilding are immediately apparent on both the bases and trailing foliage of the basins, speculating that the pair were perhaps intended for interior use within a palazzo style setting. Though now attractively oxidized from outdoor exposure, it is very likely the Herculean figures were originally patinated, whilst the scrolling decoration and paw feet were brightly gilt.
Upon closer inspection of the bases, traces of gilding are immediately apparent on both the bases and trailing foliage of the basins, speculating that the pair were perhaps intended for interior use within a palazzo style setting. Though now attractively oxidized from outdoor exposure, it is very likely the Herculean figures were originally patinated, whilst the scrolling decoration and paw feet were brightly gilt.