Venetian Grotto Chair
A Venetian Grotto Chair, Attributed to Pauly & Cie
First Half of the 20th Century
A boldly sculptural Venetian grotto chair, carved in the form of an oversized scallop shell with fantastical dolphin-form arms and vigorously modelled legs encrusted with coral-like textures.
The whole retains its original silver-gilt and polychrome surface, now worn and oxidised to softer faded silver tone.
Dealers Comment:
"I've always been fascinated by 'grotto furniture' since I first saw one of these chairs about 10 years ago and had no idea what on earth it was but quickly bought it. I still find them fascinating, eccentric things.
Sometimes they can be quite gaudy and over gilded - normally the later examples , this one dates to the 1920's and the patination is just right - ideal for a stack of books or towels in a fantasy bathroom but to be honest, stick it anywhere and it will look great"
The Venetian tradition of grotto furniture is a trend that emerged in the 18th century as part of the wider European fascination with theatrical interiors of Venetian palazzi.
These highly imaginative pieces, often inspired by shells, coral, dolphins and sea monsters, were produced for boudoirs, garden pavilions and eccentric salons designed to evoke underwater grottos.
Pauly & Cie
Founded in 1866, became one of Venice’s most important luxury manufacturers, The firm supplied international exhibitions and exported Venetian taste worldwide.
Their grotto furniture, often combining crisp carving with elaborate surface finishes, is among the most coveted of their sculptural pieces.
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First Half of the 20th Century
A boldly sculptural Venetian grotto chair, carved in the form of an oversized scallop shell with fantastical dolphin-form arms and vigorously modelled legs encrusted with coral-like textures.
The whole retains its original silver-gilt and polychrome surface, now worn and oxidised to softer faded silver tone.
Dealers Comment:
"I've always been fascinated by 'grotto furniture' since I first saw one of these chairs about 10 years ago and had no idea what on earth it was but quickly bought it. I still find them fascinating, eccentric things.
Sometimes they can be quite gaudy and over gilded - normally the later examples , this one dates to the 1920's and the patination is just right - ideal for a stack of books or towels in a fantasy bathroom but to be honest, stick it anywhere and it will look great"
The Venetian tradition of grotto furniture is a trend that emerged in the 18th century as part of the wider European fascination with theatrical interiors of Venetian palazzi.
These highly imaginative pieces, often inspired by shells, coral, dolphins and sea monsters, were produced for boudoirs, garden pavilions and eccentric salons designed to evoke underwater grottos.
Pauly & Cie
Founded in 1866, became one of Venice’s most important luxury manufacturers, The firm supplied international exhibitions and exported Venetian taste worldwide.
Their grotto furniture, often combining crisp carving with elaborate surface finishes, is among the most coveted of their sculptural pieces.
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Width:
Depth:
£ 6,500.00
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