Medici vases. Italy, second half of the 19th century

Medici vases. Italy, second half of the 19th century.
Silver plated metal.
Measurements: 50 x 30 x 30 cm.

Pair of neoclassical cups in silver-plated metal with motifs relieved as a frieze, where a bacchanal is represented. The pieces, clearly inspired by the Medici krater or vase of the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, repeat the composition, taking certain liberties the author in the deposit, where the Sacrifice of Iphigenia of the original is replaced by the aforementioned bacchanal. As for the rest, it is faithful to the original; the ovals and pearl contour of the exvasado lip are maintained, as well as the vegetal motifs, scrolls and gadroons of its lower half.

The Medici Vase is one of the most famous pieces of classical antiquity, an imposing marble vase of the first century BC, probably of Greek origin, noted for its elegance and detailed reliefs. More than a meter and a half high, its krater shape (used for mixing wine and water) and its sculpted decoration with mythological scenes made it an icon of Renaissance art, when it was rediscovered.