Miniature Silver Roulette Wheel, 1960s

Details

Description

A unique, miniature functional sculpture made of silver, depicting a stylized figurative scene in the form of a historical game … Read more A unique, miniature functional sculpture made of silver, depicting a stylized figurative scene in the form of a historical game of chance—roulette or tombola. The object combines decorative and mechanical functions: once the pointer is set in motion, a number can be drawn from a dial marked with the numbers 1 through 12.

The central part of the composition is a figure of a man in a costume stylized to resemble a bygone era, which also serves as a structural element. The whole is mounted on a decorative three-legged base with elegantly profiled legs. Another distinctive feature are the two symmetrical arches topped with weights, which lend the form a sense of lightness and dynamism.

The object references rare 18th-century collector’s miniatures by artists such as Pieter van Somerwil or Johannes van Gaffen, produced in Western Europe, particularly in the Netherlands, where similar table games were popular among the bourgeoisie and collectors.

The item dates to the 20th century and was crafted in a historicist style. It is preserved in very good condition, with a natural patina characteristic of silver.

Material:
Silver (workshop marks visible on the structural element)

Dimensions:
Height: 12 cm
Diameter of the disc: approx. 4,2 cm

Condition:
Very good, minor signs of use, natural patina.

Origin:
Europe, 20th century

Notes:
A decorative and collectible object of high aesthetic value, ideal for a cabinet of curiosities, a collection of miniatures, or as a unique piece See less