Grand German Silver-Gilt Centerpiece with Mythological and Nautical Motifs
Grand German Silver-Gilt Centerpiece with Mythological and Nautical Motifs
A monumental German silver-gilt centerpiece featuring mythological bas-relief, mermaids, musical figures, and elaborate marine and architectural ornamentation.
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This extraordinary German silver-gilt centerpiece is a masterwork of ornamental craftsmanship, combining sculptural drama with mythological elegance. The wide bowl is richly embossed with classical scenes, including figures of mermaids and deities, surrounded by scrolling foliage and high-relief repoussé detail.
The stem is supported by a network of sculptural arms featuring figural cherubs, mermaids, and marine-inspired elements. At the base, a dramatic scene unfolds with musician figures, swans, salamanders, and gargoyle feet set against a wave-like, rococo ground. This composition rests on a raised platform rimmed with a pierced gallery and scrolling supports.
Likely intended for ceremonial or exhibition display, this centerpiece reflects the extravagant tastes of 19th-century German silverwork, possibly influenced by Renaissance and Baroque revival styles.
Key Features:
Origin: Germany, late 19th century
Material: Silver gilt (gilded silver)
Decoration: Mythological bas-relief with mermaids, deities, and classical figures
Base: Musicians, swans, gargoyle feet, salamanders, and wave patterns
Style: Rococo / Neo-Baroque revival
Function: Centerpiece or ornamental table sculpture
A rare, museum-grade object showcasing technical virtuosity and grand visual storytelling
Seller Information
This extraordinary German silver-gilt centerpiece is a masterwork of ornamental craftsmanship, combining sculptural drama with mythological elegance. The wide bowl is richly embossed with classical scenes, including figures of mermaids and deities, surrounded by scrolling foliage and high-relief repoussé detail.
The stem is supported by a network of sculptural arms featuring figural cherubs, mermaids, and marine-inspired elements. At the base, a dramatic scene unfolds with musician figures, swans, salamanders, and gargoyle feet set against a wave-like, rococo ground. This composition rests on a raised platform rimmed with a pierced gallery and scrolling supports.
Likely intended for ceremonial or exhibition display, this centerpiece reflects the extravagant tastes of 19th-century German silverwork, possibly influenced by Renaissance and Baroque revival styles.
Key Features:
Origin: Germany, late 19th century
Material: Silver gilt (gilded silver)
Decoration: Mythological bas-relief with mermaids, deities, and classical figures
Base: Musicians, swans, gargoyle feet, salamanders, and wave patterns
Style: Rococo / Neo-Baroque revival
Function: Centerpiece or ornamental table sculpture
A rare, museum-grade object showcasing technical virtuosity and grand visual storytelling
