Pair English Style Tole Painted Metal Small Brass Mounted Urns

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Description

These elegant Neoclassical style metal and brass covered urns are a striking expression of timeless European design, blending refined architectural … Read more These elegant Neoclassical style metal and brass covered urns are a striking expression of timeless European design, blending refined architectural form with beautifully executed decorative artistry. Inspired by the classical traditions of Ancient Greece and Rome and influenced by the sophisticated French Empire and English Regency periods, this handsome pair offers exceptional versatility as decorative accents for both traditional and transitional interiors.

Crafted from patinated metal with finely cast brass accents, each urn features a gracefully shaped campana form raised upon a turned pedestal and oval base. The rich matte black finish creates a dramatic backdrop for the exquisite hand-painted oval landscape medallions that adorn the front of each vessel. Delicately rendered in warm earth tones and soft greens, the pastoral scenes depict romantic countryside ruins, tranquil waterways, and tiny figures enjoying the landscape. These charming miniature paintings evoke the picturesque ideals of the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries, when classical ruins and idyllic scenery became highly fashionable decorative motifs.

The urns are further enhanced with elegant gilt detailing throughout. Stylized anthemion and foliate motifs radiate around each painted reserve, while hand-painted gilded borders accentuate the graceful contours of the body, pedestal, and base. The decorative brass lion-head mounts positioned on either side support swinging ring handles, a design element inspired by classical antiquity that symbolizes strength, nobility, and permanence. These beautifully cast mounts provide both visual interest and historical authenticity.

Each urn is crowned with a fitted domed lid surmounted by a finely cast brass finial in the form of a stylized pinecone or acorn. Throughout classical decorative arts, these forms represented prosperity, longevity, fertility, and eternal life, making them especially popular on decorative urns, finials, and architectural ornaments. The sweeping lines of the lid complement the elegant proportions of the vessel while creating a sophisticated silhouette from every viewing angle.

The overall craftsmanship reflects the attention to detail associated with high-quality European decorative objects. Every element, from the carefully balanced proportions to the hand-painted landscapes and precisely applied gilt ornamentation, demonstrates the skill of talented artisans working within the Neoclassical tradition. The subtle patina that has developed over time enhances the urns' authenticity and provides the rich character collectors seek in fine decorative accessories.

These covered urns would make an impressive statement displayed on a mantel, console table, library bookcase, dining room sideboard, or flanking a pair of candlesticks or candelabra. They are equally at home in formal living rooms, elegant foyers, executive offices, or refined bedroom interiors. Their restrained color palette allows them to integrate effortlessly with French, English, Empire, Regency, Traditional, or even contemporary interiors seeking a sophisticated decorative focal point.

Condition is very good for their age, exhibiting expected minor surface wear, gentle rubbing to the gilt decoration, and a beautifully aged patina consistent with careful use over many years. The painted landscape reserves remain vibrant and attractive, while the brass mounts retain their crisp detailing and warm finish. The lids fit properly, and the urns are structurally sound and ready for immediate display.

Whether acquired by a collector of Neoclassical decorative arts or chosen simply for their exceptional beauty, this distinguished pair of covered metal and brass urns represents a refined example of classical European craftsmanship that will continue to enrich any interior for generations to come.




Dimensions: 11 inches high x 7 inches wide x 4.75 inches deep See less