Pair of Large Italian Chinoiserie Decorated Red Tole Neoclassical Planters

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A decorative pair of Italian chinoiserie decorated tole planters, executed in flared square form with red japanned surfaces, black-painted interiors, … Read more A decorative pair of Italian chinoiserie decorated tole planters, executed in flared square form with red japanned surfaces, black-painted interiors, gilt edging, raised plinth bases and gilt paw feet. Each planter is ornamented with gilt figural chinoiserie decoration depicting robed sage-like figures amid bamboo, flowering branches and stylized botanical motifs, set within shaped reserves and balanced by lattice-pattern decoration to the reverse. The bases are further enriched with painted floral sprays, while the worn red ground, softened gilding and aged surface texture give the pair a richly patinated Continental character. Best cataloged as Italian rather than Chinese Export, and possibly made in the French chinoiserie taste, the pair reflects the European tradition of lacquer-inspired toleware, where East Asian imagery was reinterpreted for decorative interiors. Elegant as cachepots, console ornaments or mantel planters, the pair would suit an Italian, French, Regency, neoclassical, chinoiserie or country-house interior.

Measurements: 14.5" h x 10.25" w x 10.5" d. See less