Object Description
Antique collection of Italian Grand Tour plaster intaglios
Italian, Early 19th Century
Height 39.5cm, width 27cm, depth 5cm
Consisting of around 200 plaster intaglios, this collection is a memento of one’s travels during the Grand Tour, a popular travelling event between the 17th and 19th centuries.
Each intaglio depicts scenes as well as figures from Classical mythology and arts, such as the Three Graces or Apollo. A number of pieces are signed, a feature most likely taken from the original artworks they were inspired by. The pure white of the plaster highlights the various textures and adds interest to the elegant pieces. The plaster intaglios are of various sizes and the collection is displayed in four elegant frames.
The collection comes with a handwritten catalogue listing the pieces in the frames. The plaster intaglios are described in Italian and given an inventory number. The handwritten notes are divided into panels, making the process of identification easier.
Plaster intaglios, like the superb examples in Mayfair Gallery’s collection, were bought by wealthy gentlemen during Grand Tours. They acted as souvenirs but also reminders of the places visited, and objects seen by the aristocrats. Such pieces were usually mounted into books and cases and proudly displayed in one’s home, also being seen as status symbols and indications of their owner’s wealth.
This wonderful collection is evidence of one’s exciting travels and reminders of what they have seen. Each intaglio carries its individual story, bringing an exciting element to one’s home.