Vintage Brass Seahorse, 1920s

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A Piece of Venetian Maritime History: 1930-40 Century Gondola Cavalluccio Ornament

A very rare and authentic piece of antique Venetian … Read more A Piece of Venetian Maritime History: 1930-40 Century Gondola Cavalluccio Ornament

A very rare and authentic piece of antique Venetian history, a Brass Seahorse-Form Gondola Ornament, known in Italy as Cavalluccio. Dating to the first half of 20th Century, this piece is not merely decorative, it is a functional relic designed specifically for a traditional Venetian gondola.

This particular form, the mythological Hippocampus (sea horse), is symbolic of Venice and its maritime heritage.

Excellent antique condition commensurate with almost a century of age and use, likely having spent time on the Venetian canals. The brass bears a patina with natural wear and minor imperfections.

We have left the brass unpolished to preserve its antique value See less