Object Description
A matching pair of 19th century bronze Grand Tour scale models of the Townley Vase, after the marble 2nd century Roman antique.
Circa 1870, these antique urns are in good condition, the bodies cast in high relief with a neoclassical Bacchic scene featuring a dancing and drinking procession of male and female figures, some of which are nude, including the Greek Gods Pan and Bacchus.
Finished with scrolling handles and embellished socles to model the Townley Vase, this pair of bronze urns are mounted on tapered black marble bases with bronze feet. Each also benefits from the addition of a removable insert, suitable for a range of uses including planting with flowers if desired.
Handsomely cast, you can just imagine these striking bronze vases situated on plinths either side of a doorway or styled on a mantelpiece as stylish pieces once acquired on an 19th century adventurer’s Grand Tour.
The Townley Vase
The original 3-foot tall Townley Vase, on which these scale models are based, dates from the 2nd century CE. It was discovered in 1773 during excavations of a Roman Villa at Monte Cagnolo by Gavin Hamilton, a Scottish painter and archaeologist.
However, it wasn’t until 1774 that it was named the Townley Vase after it was purchased from Hamilton for £250 by English collector of classical antiquities, Charles Townley. The vase formed part of Townley’s large collection at his London home until his death in 1805 when it was purchased from the British Museum where it remains to this day.
Throughout the Grand Tour eras of the 18th and 19th centuries, European models of the famed Townley Vase were made in plaster, bronze and imitation marble and acquired by many a collector on their travels.
Additional Dimensions
Dimensions are for each.
Weight per vase: 7.5 kg
Bases: 15.5 x 15.5 cm (6.1 inches)