Monumental German Baroque Carved Wood Vases, Set of 2

Details

Description

A pair of monumental Baroque vases, hand-carved in wood in Germany around 1750 and retaining their original silver mounts. The … Read more A pair of monumental Baroque vases, hand-carved in wood in Germany around 1750 and retaining their original silver mounts. The bodies are richly carved with scrolling acanthus, shell motifs and bold volutes, rising from shaped bases. The carving is of substantial scale and retains the strong sculptural character typical of South German Baroque work of the mid-18th century.

Large wooden vases of this type belong to the tradition of Maivasen (May vases). In southern Germany these were made for the month of May and the Marian devotion associated with it. They stood in churches and private chapels as temporary altar pieces, either filled with flowers or left empty as decorative sculpture. Their height and carved presence were intended to give them a festive, processional quality.

The pair has been adapted for use as side tables by the addition of shaped Plexiglas tops. The conversion leaves the carved bodies and original silver mounts fully visible while providing a practical surface.

May Vases of this size and originality are of absolute rarity and fit for art exhibitions or museums.

Origin: Germany

Date: Circa 1750

Materials: Hand-carved wood with original silver mounts; later shaped acrylic glas tops

Condition: Good antique condition; converted to side tables with shaped acrylic glas tops

Dimensions: Height 72 cm (28.3 in.); Width 52 cm (20.5 in.); Depth 40 cm (15.7 in.) See less