Lot 109 A PAIR OF MONUMENTAL TERRACOTTA GARDEN URNS WITH LID AND SWAN HANDELS, 19TH CENTURY
In classical mythology, swans represent fidelity and eternal love, as it was believed that swans choose a partner for life. In Greek mythology the swan is associated with the gods Apollo, god of music, harmony and beauty and Aphrodite, goddess of love and beauty, therefore the swan also symbolizes harmony, purity and elegance.
The Acanthus leaves stand for immortality and durability. The oval medallions on the body of the vase (one man, one woman) refer to Roman art and prestige.
The rim of the vase is wide and slightly curved outward. The center is richly decorated with relief decorations, like oval medallions with motifs and floral and scroll ornaments. The handles on both sides are large sculptural handles in the shape of swans. The swans appear to bend their necks, thus forming the handle. Their wings and feathers are detailed.
Just below the body is a row of round, spherical decorations that run all the way around. The vase stands on a profiled foot with vertical grooves and additional relief decoration.
This foot rests on a square base.
Height 130 cm.
Width 78 cm.
Square plinth 30 cm.