Italian Verdigris Copper Dolphin Lavabo With Shell Basin C. 1900

Details

Description

A rare and highly decorative Italian verdigris copper lavabo, late 19th to early 20th century, modeled as a dramatic dolphin-form … Read more A rare and highly decorative Italian verdigris copper lavabo, late 19th to early 20th century, modeled as a dramatic dolphin-form wall fountain above a separate scallop-shell basin. The upper reservoir is fashioned as a stylized classical dolphin or sea creature with arched scaled body, flared fan tail, projecting fins, modeled eyes, gills and mouth, retaining a small functional spigot beneath the head. Below, the shaped shell basin is richly ornamented with a raised scallop backplate, scrolling sides, rope-twist rim and radiating shell-form interior, creating a complete architectural water feature in the Renaissance Revival and grotto tradition.

The form is best understood within the Italian decorative tradition of garden fountains, wall lavabos and aquatic architectural ornament. The dolphin has a long association with classical water imagery, maritime abundance and Mediterranean fountain design, while the shell basin evokes Renaissance grottoes, courtyard fountains and neoclassical garden decoration. The aged copper surface has developed a richly varied verdigris patina, with blue-green oxidation, darker bronze-brown undertones, visible hand-worked shaping, repoussé scale detail and time-softened wear. Although related to French copper lavabos of the 18th and 19th centuries, the sculptural dolphin-form reservoir and shell basin closely parallel Italian figural copper lavabo examples and support an Italian attribution.

A compelling statement piece for a garden room, conservatory, courtyard, powder room, entry hall or architectural interior, the lavabo combines utility, sculpture and classical marine symbolism.

Measurements:
35" h total with no separation, 22.25" w bowl, 16" d bowl.
Dolphin measures: 26" h x 19" w x 7.25" d.
Bowl measures: 22.25" w x 16" d x 9" h. See less