Pair of neoclassical capitals. Italy, 18th century.

Pair of neoclassical capitals. Italy, 18th century.
Marble.
Measurements: 34,5 x 42 x 42 cm.

Pair of neoclassical capitals of Italian origin and Corinthian order. Great quality is appreciated in the carving, in the work of the volutes and in the naturalistic superimposition of the acanthus leaves of curved finish. It can be presumed that they come from an important monumental building (religious or secular) in an Italian city. It was in the capitals that the sculptural value attached to the architecture for the recreation of the "old way" was concentrated. These works of stone carving are of a singular complexity and workmanship. The ornamentation of these elements is a laborious work that only the great craftsmen knew and know how to do. Neoclassical architecture is the style that opens the doors to the modern world, but curiously, claiming the ancient style. We often see in its buildings classical capitals harmonizing with straighter and purer, pre-modern lines.

The Corinthian order is the most ornate of the classical architectural orders, characterized by vegetal decoration composed of acanthus leaves acquiring a curved shape. The first known use of a Corinthian capital dates from 427 BC in the temple of Apollo at Basas, a place near the city of Figalia of Arcadia. It is essentially similar to the Ionic order, from which it differs basically in the shape and size of the capital. One of the most remarkable constructions executed according to the stylistic guidelines of the Corinthian order is the monument of Lysicrates in Athens, erected around 334 B.C. Roman architects erected it in one of the classical orders. It was often used in public buildings such as temples, basilicas or forums. A notable example is the temple of avenging Mars in Rome, built by Emperor Augustus in the 1st century B.C. The intricate Corinthian capitals of the temple are considered one of the finest examples of Roman architecture. In the 18th century, there is a new boom in the making of Corinthian capitals, as neoclassicism is based on a reclaiming of the ancient manner.