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Mythological Cast Iron Bowl with Openwork Design – Historicism Era

About the Item

This small yet richly detailed cast iron bowl is a fine example of 19th-century Historicism, a design movement known for its eclectic revival of earlier styles. The bowl features an intricate openwork pattern, expertly cast in iron, with an abundance of mythological and aquatic motifs. Among the figures depicted are a powerful trident-wielding water god, women gracefully riding on fish, dolphins, and other fantastical sea creatures. These narrative scenes are full of movement and expressiveness, evoking the richness of ancient myths and legends. Framing the imagery is a continuous border made up of stylized acanthus leaves, volutes, and scrollwork – decorative elements borrowed from classical and Renaissance ornamentation. The dense, almost theatrical decoration reflects the Historicist fascination with combining styles from various periods to create something opulent and timeless. Despite its small size, this iron dish has a striking presence and is ideal as a collector’s piece or conversation starter in a curated interior. It represents a period when craftsmanship, symbolism, and stylistic excess were celebrated, making it a unique and historically layered object. Its well-preserved condition and expressive design add to its lasting value and appeal.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 2 in (5.08 cm)Diameter: 22 in (55.88 cm)
  • Style:
    Belle Époque (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Iron,Lacquered
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1870
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use.
  • Seller Location:
    Hamburg, DE
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU3958344922972

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