Authentic Models “Bell Tower Antica” AR011—Large Cherry & Birch Architectural Model

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Authentic Models “Bell Tower Antica” AR011—Large Cherry & Birch Architectural Model

Details:
Maker: Authentic Models
Model: AR011
Model Name: Bell … Read more Authentic Models “Bell Tower Antica” AR011—Large Cherry & Birch Architectural Model

Details:
Maker: Authentic Models
Model: AR011
Model Name: Bell Tower Antica
Materials: Cherry and birch wood
Mark: Registered AM mermaid trademark to underside
Height: Approximately 34 1/4 in. (87.5 cm)
Diameter: Approximately 13 1/2 in. (34.75 cm)

Period: Late 20th century

Description :
An impressive Authentic Models “Bell Tower Antica” architectural model, Model AR011, finely handcrafted in cherry and birch wood and retaining the distinctive registered AM mermaid trademark to the underside of the base.Inspired by the tradition of historic European architectural maquettes and construction models, the Bell Tower Antica presents an imaginative classical tower in exposed structural form. Its elegant combination of a soaring ribbed cupola, open colonnade, intricate spiral staircase, and substantial stepped plinth gives the model an unusually sculptural presence.At approximately 34 1/4 inches high, it is a substantial decorative object, yet the openness of its construction gives the tower a remarkably graceful and airy appearance.
Architectural Design
The model is conceived as a vertically ascending classical tower or pavilion, with each architectural level becoming progressively lighter and more delicate toward the summit.

Open Lantern & Finial
The tower culminates in a small open lantern supported by slender turned columns and curved architectural elements. Above it rises a sharply pointed finial, emphasizing the model's dramatic vertical proportions.

Exposed Ribbed Cupola
Directly beneath the lantern is the model's most distinctive feature: an openwork domed cupola formed by a series of sweeping wooden ribs.Rather than representing the dome with a solid exterior surface, its underlying framework is intentionally exposed. This skeletal treatment recalls the construction and presentation techniques found in traditional architectural study models, where structural geometry itself becomes visually compelling.The curved ribs create an intricate pattern of intersecting lines and changing perspectives, making the model particularly interesting when viewed from different angles.

Circular Entablature
The cupola is supported by a substantial circular architectural platform composed of multiple molded and stepped bands. Finished in a deeper reddish-brown tone, this section creates a strong visual division between the open dome above and the colonnaded structure below.

Classical Colonnade
Tall, finely turned wooden columns rise from the lower platform to support the upper structure. Their symmetrical arrangement creates the appearance of an open classical pavilion while allowing uninterrupted views into the center of the tower.

The warm tones of the columns contrast beautifully with the darker architectural platforms and moldings.

Central Spiral Staircase
Perhaps the most captivating detail is the elaborate wooden spiral staircase winding upward through the center of the colonnade.Numerous individually formed steps progress around the central axis, producing a continuous ascending spiral. Viewed through the surrounding columns, the staircase creates an intricate interplay of curves, repetition, light, and shadow.Together, the spiraling staircase and radiating ribs of the cupola give the model much of its distinctive sculptural character.

Stepped Circular Base
The tower rests upon a broad circular wooden plinth composed of concentric molded tiers. Its substantial proportions visually anchor the tall, increasingly delicate structure above while providing the model with a stable foundation.The underside retains the distinctive registered AM mermaid trademark associated with Authentic Models, an important identifying feature of the piece.

Materials & Finish
Authentic Models' architectural models were crafted from cherry and birch wood, materials particularly suited to the precise turning, shaping, and curved construction required for such intricate models.The Bell Tower Antica displays a rich traditional polished finish incorporating complementary wood tones. Warm amber, honey, and reddish-brown hues emphasize the staircase, columns, and exposed dome ribs, while deeper mahogany and espresso tones define the circular platforms, architectural moldings, and substantial base.The contrast between these finishes enhances the complexity of the structure and allows the individual architectural components to remain clearly defined.

Historical Inspiration
Authentic Models developed its architectural collection in the spirit of the elaborate scale models historically produced by architects and master builders to explore structural ideas and present three-dimensional designs.The Bell Tower Antica draws upon this tradition as a decorative architectural interpretation rather than a model of a specifically identified historic building. Its exposed framework celebrates the structural components themselves—the columns, staircase, platforms, ribs, and dome construction—rather than simply reproducing a finished architectural exterior.The result occupies an appealing position between architectural model, decorative sculpture, and cabinetmaker's object.

Maker's Mark
The underside of the base bears the distinctive AM registered trademark incorporating mermaid figures.The mermaid imagery has documented associations with Authentic Models' historical branding, while AM is the company's established abbreviation for Authentic Models. Together with the documented AR011 design, the mark provides clear maker identification for this example.

Decorative Appeal
With its impressive height, warm polished woods, and intricate open construction, the Bell Tower Antica makes a sophisticated statement in a wide variety of interiors.it would display particularly well on a library table, center table, console, pedestal, or substantial desk, and complements collections incorporating Grand Tour objects, architectural fragments, antique globes, scientific instruments, classical sculpture, and other objects of curiosity.Its open construction also means there is no single principal viewing side; the staircase, colonnade, and dome reveal different architectural relationships as the model is viewed from around the room. See less