Description
Pair of Marble Plaques with Roman Motifs
From our Decorative collection, we are pleased to present this elegant pair of Italian Grand Tour Marble Plaques, dating to the mid-19th century, circa 1860.
Rectangular in form, each plaque is framed in beautifully veined Carrara white marble, enclosing detailed scenes carved in warm Siena marble. The compositions depict Roman motifs, small panoplies of military armour featuring chest plates, spears, and symbolic elements. One plaque bears a spear entwined with a snake, while the other displays a spear with a flag, both referencing Rome’s martial power and classical symbolism.
Created as refined souvenirs of the Grand Tour, these plaques exemplify the neoclassical taste that flourished among 19th-century travellers seeking to bring home a connection to the art and history of Italy. Their harmonious contrast of Carrara and Siena marbles highlights the Italian use of stone carving and the Roman iconography.
This pair remains an excellent example of Grand Tour art and would make a distinguished addition to any collection of classical decorative arts.
Carrara Marble
was also known as Luna marble to the Romans, is a type of white marble which is extremely popular for use in sculpture and building decor.
Sienna Marble
consists of various dark yellow and gold colours, it is extremely heterogeneous due to the presence of grains with shades ranging from ivory white to light yellow to a reddish yellow ocher and is usually an intense marble.
For further information on marble please see our article Marble in Sculpture and Art.
GRAND TOUR
The Grand Tour was an extended journey across Europe, undertaken from the 17th through the late 18th century, primarily by young men of wealth and status. Intended as a cultural and educational rite of passage, it usually began in Dover and led travellers through France and Italy in search of art, history, and classical inspiration. On occasion, women over 21 also participated, provided they were accompanied by a family chaperone.
Tourists on the Grand Tour carried ample funds, allowing them to collect fine art, antiquities, and decorative souvenirs. Marble busts, bronzes, and classical reproductions, like this example, were highly sought after, serving as both educational keepsakes and reminders of their travels through the centres of European culture.
For further information please see our article The Grand Tour – A Journey of Culture, Art and Collecting.
MEASUREMENTS
13cm High x 16.5cm Wide x 3cm Deep (5.1 x 6.5 x 1.2 Inches)
CONDITION
Very Good, minor chipping to the edges consistent with age
With every purchase from Jacksons Antique, you will receive our latest product guide, certificate of authenticity, full tracking information so you can monitor your shipment from start to finish and our personal no-hassle, money-back policy giving you that extra confidence when purchasing. Don’t forget to sign up to our free monthly newsletter for 10% off your first online purchase.
