Vintage Heavy Cast Bronze Giant Clamshell Sculptural Bowl

Details

Description

An exceptionally substantial vintage cast bronze clamshell bowl, beautifully modeled after the organic contours of a natural shell.

Weighing an … Read more An exceptionally substantial vintage cast bronze clamshell bowl, beautifully modeled after the organic contours of a natural shell.

Weighing an extraordinary 15.6 pounds, this is far more sculptural object than conventional decorative bowl. The exceptionally heavy casting gives the piece remarkable presence, with deeply articulated exterior ridges, an irregular scalloped edge and an interior that follows the radiating contours of an open clam shell.

The bronze has developed a wonderfully complex natural patina, ranging from warm brown and umber along the exterior to darker bronze and subtle verdigris tones within the bowl. Rather than diminishing the piece, the variations in coloration accentuate the deeply modeled surface and give it the character of an object collected over time.

The underside retains the rough, naturalistic texture of the shell with a flattened resting area allowing the piece to sit securely.

No maker’s mark has been observed. While the exact origin is unknown, the form, substantial bronze casting and decorative treatment are consistent with mid-20th-century European decorative bronzes, including examples produced in Italy. We have therefore conservatively described the piece as vintage 20th century rather than assigning a specific maker or country of manufacture.

A compelling centerpiece displayed empty as sculpture, or equally striking used as a decorative vessel or catchall. Its marine inspiration works beautifully in sophisticated coastal interiors while its aged bronze surface and classical naturalism lend themselves equally well to Mediterranean, neoclassical, organic modern and collected traditional settings.

DIMENSIONS
12.75” W × 8” D × 4” H

WEIGHT
15.6 lbs.

MATERIAL
Cast bronze

PERIOD
Vintage, 20th century

ORIGIN
Unknown; possibly European/Italian

CONDITION
Good vintage condition with naturally developed patina, oxidation, tonal variation and surface wear consistent with age. Areas of brown, dark bronze and green verdigris patination are present throughout and contribute to the character of the piece. The bronze has not been polished to remove its aged surface. Please review photographs closely for condition and patina. See less