18th Century Rococo Venetian Polychrome and Mecca Lacquered Wooden Wall Sconces with Iron Arms, Set of 2

Details

Description

These exceptional Italian polychrome lacquered wall sconces are true masterpieces of 18th-century Venetian craftsmanship. Fashioned in the shape of grand … Read more These exceptional Italian polychrome lacquered wall sconces are true masterpieces of 18th-century Venetian craftsmanship. Fashioned in the shape of grand shields, these crests exemplify the opulent Rococo style that dominated Venetian palazzos during 1700s. Their impressive size (1 meter hight) and intricate detailing make them not just functional lighting fixtures, but also stunning works of decorative art.
Craftsmanship and Design:
The sconces are meticulously hand-carved from thick, robust wooden planks, showcasing the superior woodworking skills of Venetian artisans.
The shield-like shape of each sconce is adorned with an abundance of floral and foliate motifs, creating a rich tapestry of organic forms. At the center of each shield, a beautifully carved floral branch serves as the focal point, surrounded by an intricate array of leaves and blossoms. The edges of the sconces are not smooth but intricately scalloped, following the contours of the carved leaves and flowers. This design choice adds depth and movement to the pieces. Crowning each sconce is a large, elegantly carved shell motif, a classic element of Baroque design that adds a touch of maritime flair typical of Venetian aesthetics.
The sconces feature a subtle convex curve, adding dimensionality and further enhancing their visual impact and original patina. The bombé effect not only adds to their aesthetic appeal but also demonstrates the technical skill required in their construction.
Finish and Color:
The sconces boast a magnificent polychrome lacquer finish, achieved using natural pigments. The color palette ranges from vibrant greens to rich reds, with subtle shades of ochre and blue providing contrast and depth. This colorful base is then elevated by the application of mecca lacquer, a sophisticated gilding technique that involves applying silver leaf over a red bole ground. The result is a warm, luminous golden sheen that highlights the intricate carving and adds a luxurious dimension to the pieces.
Lighting Elements:
Each sconce is fitted with removable wrought iron arms designed to hold two lights. Originally intended for candles, these can be easily electrified to meet modern needs while maintaining their historical integrity.
Provenance and Significance:
These wall lights undoubtedly once graced the walls of a grand Venetian palazzo, their size and quality indicating they were commissioned for a space of considerable importance. They represent not just functional lighting, but also the artistic and cultural pinnacle of 18th-century Venetian decorative arts.
As a pair, these sconces offer a rare opportunity to acquire matching examples of large-scale, museum-quality Venetian wall décor. Their exceptional craftsmanship, size, and state of preservation make them highly desirable for collectors of Italian art, interior designers seeking statement pieces for high-end projects, or institutions looking to enhance their collections of 18th-century decorative arts.
Whether used as functional lighting or purely as decorative elements, these sconces would serve as the focal point of any room and a conversation piece, lending an air of Venetian grandeur and historical significance to their surroundings.
Measurements:
Height: 100 cm (39.4 inches)
Width: 50 cm (19.7 inches)
Maximum Depth: 25 cm (9.8 inches)
These wall sconces are currently not electrified. However, we can provide a quote for professional electrification to meet either European or international electrical standards, ensuring they are fully functional while preserving their historical integrity. This service can be tailored to the specific requirements of the buyer's location and intended use.
Up to 250V (Europe/UK Standard).The wiring of this item may be original and might need replacement, if not specified otherwise. See less