Description

Pair of Venetian Moors

Pair of flower-pot stands with figures of Moors – Italy, 19th century

Refined pair of decorative sculptures in polychrome and gilded wood, depicting Venetian Moors shown in kneeling or crouching positions and supporting elaborate floral stems. The ensemble draws inspiration from the celebrated Venetian decorative tradition of the Mori, subjects particularly appreciated in historic interiors and the decorative arts from the 18th to the 19th century.

The figures display rich and lively modelling, characterised by dark complexions, strongly defined facial features and ornamental details enhanced with gilding. The Moors wear elaborate headdresses and richly decorated skirts, with gilded details accentuating the theatrical character of the compositions.

Each figure supports a twisted floral stem, rising upwards and terminating in two large bud-shaped receptacles, decorated in sage green with gilded borders, designed to hold flowers or small vases. The structure follows a particularly theatrical decorative typology, in which the human figure becomes an integral part of the ornamental support.

The figures rest on elaborate shaped wooden bases imitating rocks, an element that provides stability to the composition while recalling the naturalistic and theatrical taste of the Venetian Baroque tradition.

The pair belongs to the tradition of the so-called Venetian Moors, exotic and theatrical figures that enjoyed considerable popularity in Venetian decorative arts. This type of sculpture was used as a decorative and supporting element, particularly in reception rooms, palaces, historic residences and private collections.

The vivid polychromy, gilding and theatrical rendering of the figures give the pair a striking decorative presence. The combination of the figurative character of the Moors and their function as flower-pot stands makes these objects particularly suitable for interiors of an antiquarian character and for refined classical settings.

Technical Details
Type: Flower-pot stands 
Period: 19th century
Manufacture: Italy, Venetian 
Material: Polychrome and gilded wood, with aged patina
Decoration: Polychromy, gilded details, sage-green receptacles
Base: Shaped wood imitating rock
Dimensions: Height 67 cm; base 32 × 27 cm
Condition: Overall in good condition. The sculptures retain a pleasing aged patina and their original decorative characteristics. There are normal signs of age, minor surface wear and small losses or abrasions to the polychromy and gilding, consistent with the period and nature of the objects. These characteristics do not compromise the stability of the sculptures or their overall aesthetic appearance.