15th Century and Earlier Decorative Objects

A naturally occurring blue-green botryoidal chrysocolla mineral specimen, originating from Kalukuluku in Congo and presented on one of our exclusive painted plaster display plinths. Defined by its vibrant colour, chrysocolla forms as crusts where copper minerals...

An archaic bronze vessel in flattened flask form with ring handles and mottled red and green patination.

Beautiful set of two pre-Columbian bird form artifacts. One finely carved bird head stone mounted on primitive wood base, in antique condition with no major...

A large natural skeletal malachite specimen originating from Madagascar. This unique specimen showcases a rich green colour with areas of darker shades. This specimen has a striking...

Cercle of Jacopo della Pila (Lombard, in Naples 1471-1502) Marble relief depicting a winged Cherub Naples, second half of15th century 40 x 57 x 12 cm Exquisitely carved, this relief portrays a winged cherub with cascading hair and delicate features. The cherub's plump, smooth countenance, rounded cheeks, outlined lips, and finely drawn nose emanate a sense of tenderness. The quadrangular module, is adorned with a carved frame. The relief ascends gradually, transitioning from the low relief of the wings to the high relief of the head. The rectangular frame and the subtly curved form of the artwork suggest that the relief likely adorned the upper part of an arch or a vaulted chapel. The type is that of the perspective room with a coffered ceiling decorated with figures of winged cherubs, which is found in various Neapolitan chapels of the 15th century. Coffered ceilings attest to the recovery of antiquity and the search for luxury in Renaissance architecture, first in Florence, then in Rome and Naples. The majority of the numerous family chapels and tombs built during the late fifteenth century in south of Italy employ the new formal vocabulary of the Florentine Renaissance in a self-confident manner that permitted a broad spectrum of variations. The escalating admiration for the classical world, coupled with the development of perspective, significantly contributed to the Renaissance endorsement of coffered ceilings. This artistic and constructive device drew inspiration from the intricate marble patterns observed in historical landmarks such as the Arch of Titus, the Temple of Vesta in Tivoli, the Pantheon, and the Basilica of Maxentius. A distilled product of both mathematical and artistic cultures, deeply scrutinizing the ancient world, the coffered ceiling plays a vital role in the perspective construction of space with its regular and directional geometry. The motif of the coffered ceiling decorated with cherubs in relief was introduced in Naples by Francesco Laurana in the plastic decoration of the Arch of Castelnuovo. Laurana's impact on the art scene in the south of Italy was profound. The introduction of the winged cherub into the region's artistic vocabulary bridged the gap between the classical and the contemporary, creating a synthesis that resonated with both aesthetic and spiritual sensibilities. His influence extended beyond the immediate visual appeal, shaping the cultural identity of the Renaissance in southern Italy. Although the plastic decoration of the Arch of Castelnuovo cannot certainly be ascribed to a mature Renaissance style, it was precisely on this occasion that the sculptors who worked there could get to know and export throughout the Italian peninsula that type of "Florentine classicism" which, even in the 15th century Naples, was conditioned by the Burgundian culture imported into the Kingdom by Alfonso of Aragon himself, with artists called from Spain and Northern Europe. The coffered ceiling, with its geometric patterns and Laurana's winged cherubs nestled within, became a symbol of refinement and cultural sophistication. The relief sculptures, carefully integrated into the overall design, transformed the ceiling into a celestial realm, inviting viewers to contemplate the divine while immersed in the grandeur of the Renaissance space. Similar winged cherubs appears also in the Naples cathedral. Within the renowned Succorpo Chapel, a mesmerizing marble coffered ceiling adorned with cherubs epitomizes the splendor of the Neapolitan Renaissance. The interplay of light and shadow on the textured surface of the marble coffered ceiling introduces an ethereal dimension, providing an immersive visual experience for observers. The geometric precision and the repeated patterns, reminiscent of classical motifs, establish a sense of harmony and balance that has become the hallmark of the Neapolitan interpretation of Florentine Renaissance aesthetics. Although probably intended to be admired from a distance, this cherub is intricately detailed and exquisitely rendered: the face and hair are elegantly outlined and the feathers are textured through juxtaposed lines. The marble, both figurative and decorative, adheres to the principles of balance and restrained ornamentation typical of the « Florentine Classicism ». Harmonious shapes and gracefully orchestrated curves , rooted in the classical repertoire, converge to evoke a sense of ethereal beauty. The surface displays the masterful use of a chisel to intricately carve the feathers and facial features, creating an almost abstract quality. This work is a testament to a sculptor of great skill and rich figurative knowledge, seamlessly blending classical firmness in contours with a refined treatment of the marble's surface. The combination of tradition and innovation point to a stylistic idiom from Lombardy, in particular we can find some comparaisons with the works of Jacopo della Pila, sculptor of Lombard origin working in Naples in the second half of the 15th century. He is documented there between 1471 and 1502, and is a protagonist of the Aragon Renaissance in the second half of the Quattrocento, together with the other great Northern sculptor active in the kingdom, Domenico Gagini. the first commission he received dates back to August 9, 1471, when Jacopo publicly committed to sculpting the funerary monument of Archbishop Nicola Piscicelli to be placed in the Cathedral of Salerno. The last known work is an altar ordered on July 29, 1502, by the noble Jacopo Rocco for the church of San Lorenzo Maggiore in Naples. Between these two chronological extremes (1471-1502), we must place the fervent activity of the artist, who had trained in Rome, perhaps under the guidance of Paolo Romano but also engaged in dialogue with other major artists of the city, especially Isaia da Pisa. He enriched his experience in Naples, initially drawing inspiration from the works of Domenico Gagini and later from the Tuscan masterpieces of Antonio Rossellino and Benedetto da Maiano destined for the church of Santa Maria di Monteoliveto. Jacopo della Pila's artistic personality is thus based on a complex interplay of influences, contributing to the definition of a highly personal style. Close comparaison can be made between our cherub and the winged angels reliefs...

San Antonio Abad, Castilian school of the 15th century (1440-1501) Carving in polychrome wood, measures: 45 x 15 cm good vintage conditions.

A large natural pyrite plate-like specimen. Originating from 5/15 level Wheal Jane Mine, Cornwall, this native British pyrite coating on calcite has a lustrous exterior with elements...

A spectacular, naturally formed arrangement of three pyrite suns on a matrix sourced from Illinois, North America. Also known as sand dollars, these minerals have a flat, disk-like s...

A large natural Chalcedony plate specimen originating from Madagascar. Chalcedony, from the Latin Chalcedonian, is a compact variety of microcrystalline...

Large rare cubed yellow fluorite formation from China mounted on a mirrored steel base. Since 1986 Dale Rogers has been sourcing the grandest fossils, crystals and minerals from a...

A fossilized horse leg. Equus sp., Pleistocene, Florida, USA This set of fossil horse bones dates from an extinct equine. The inter-locking bones are eleg...

A large sculptural blue sodalite granite specimen with a polished face and a roughly shaped ‘live’ edge. At 56cm in height, this rare, large sized mineral is spectacular in scale, be...

A South Coast wood ceremonial leeboard, Ica Valley region, Late Intermediate Horizon, ca. A.D. 1100-1400. This large 'remo' made from the hard algarrobo wood, features twelve figure...

To find a natural smithsonite specimen of this size and vibrant pink-lavender colour is a very rare find. Once forming part of a private UK collection, this striking specimen origina...

A beautiful collection of three large cabinet mineral specimens including amethyst, blue celestite and limonite quartz presented on our medium painted plaster bases. Together, these specimens form a vibrant collection for display, showcasing beautiful colours and shapes formed by nature over millions of years. More details on the individual specimens below: A: Limonite Quartz plate...

Prehistoric Mimbres prehistoric pottery bowl in as found condition. The Mimbres region of the American Southwest is celebrated for the beautiful and expressive black-on-white pottery...

Introducing a remarkable artifact from the Pre-Columbian period—a primitive head figure intricately carved from stone. This ancient relic stands proudly...

A decorative group of 6 large mounted natural native, copper and silver specimens displayed on our small painted plaster bases. Ex. British collection, this superb group includes native silver from Imider Mine in Morocco, one of the largest mines on the African continent, and native copper from Keweenaw, USA – also known as “Copper County” – where copper was highly sought after for its quality and purity. Further details below: A: Copper specimen...

Republic of Mali terracotta figure of a female ancestral figure. kneeling with her feet under her, arms to her shoulder, circa AD 1100 - 1400 Measures: Height 9 1/2 in. 24.1 cm. ...

Chic, 15th Century, Roman marble fragment of a left foot and calf mounted on a custom iron stand.

The Lavender Amethyst slab you’re considering is a standout piece due to its unique structure and coloration. Its delicate lavender hue is both soothing and sophisticated, while the druzy crystal clusters add a touch of sparkle and intrigue. This rare formation is perfect for creating a sense of opulence and exclusivity, making it an ideal centerpiece for high-end interiors. This is no ordinary amethyst; the fine details and rare formation make it a collector’s item. Rare crystals are increasingly sought after by luxury homeowners, hoteliers, and designers who want to infuse their spaces with timeless beauty and a story of natural wonder. The rarity enhances the perceived value of the piece. Mounted on a bronze stand...

Weight: 359.98 Gram Dimension: 13.6 x 7.1 x 7.3 Cm Origin: Skardu Valley, Pakistan Feldspar is the name given to a group of minerals distinguished by the presence of alumina and sil...

8.45 Gram Pretty Bi Color Tourmaline Crystals Attached With Quartz Specimen Weight: 8.45 Gram Dimension: 2.4 x 1.9 x 1.7 Cm Origin: Afghanistan Tourmaline is a crystalline silica...

18.49 Gram Beautiful Tourmaline Crystals Attached With Quartz From Afghanistan Weight: 18.49 Gram Dimension: 2.9 x 3 x 2 Cm Origin: Afghanistan Tourmaline is a crystalline silic...

6.30 Gram Stunning Tourmaline Crystals With Quartz From kunar, Afghanistan Weight: 6.30 Gram Dimension: 2.5 x 2.3 x 1 Cm Origin: kunar, Afghanistan Tourmaline is a crystalline si...

41.50 Gram Beautiful Tri Color Dual Tourmaline Specimen From Afghanistan Weight: 41.50 Gram Dimension: 3.2 x 3.5 x 2.2 Cm Origin: Paprook Mine, Afghanistan Tourmaline is a crys...

71.95 Gram Beautiful Tri Color Tourmaline Crystal From Paprook Mine Afghanistan Weight: 71.95 Gram Dimension: 2.9 x 4.3 x 3.5 Cm Origin: Paprook Mine, Afghanistan Tourmaline is a...

8.90 Gram Pretty Fadan Quartz Crystal From Balochistan, Pakistan Weight: 8.90 Gram Dimension: 5.7 x 1.9 x 0.4 Cm Origin: Balochistan, Pakistan What is special about quartz? The ...

57.92 Gram Blue Quartz Specimen From Skardu, Pakistan Weight: 57.92 Gram Dimension: 6.3 x 3.5 x 2.8 Cm Origin: Skardu, Pakistan Blue Quartz alleviates fear and enhances creativi...

36.05 Carat Aquamarine Specimen From Shigar Valley, Pakistan Weight: 36.05 Carat Dimension: 4.4 x 2.3 x 1.5 Cm Origin: Shigar Valley, Skardu District, Gilgit Baltistan Province, P...

160.04 Gram Gorgeous Morganite Specimen Attached With Albite And Fluorite Weight: 160.04 Gram Dimension: 3.9 x 7.4 x 4.3 Cm Origin: Kunar, Afghanistan With its soft pinkish hue, ...

845 Gram Marvellous Tri Color Tourmaline Specimen With Big Quartz And Fluorite Weight: 845 Gram Dimension: 8.5 x 12 x 8.4 Cm Origin: Paprook Mine, Afghanistan Tourmaline is a cry...

13.83 Gram Pretty Emerald Specimen From Swat Valley, Pakistan Weight: 13.83 Gram Dimension: 3.1 x 3.7 x 1 Cm Origin: Swat Valley, Pakistan Emerald has the chemical composition ...

14.14 Gram Mesmerising Aquamarine Crystal Bunch From Shigar Valley, Pakistan Weight: 14.14 Gram Dimension: 2.7 x 2.6 x 2.3 Origin: Shigar Valley, Skardu District, Gilgit Baltistan...

109.44 Gram Gorgeous Elongated Aquamarine Specimen From Skardu, Pakistan Weight: 109.44 Gram Dimension: 8.0 x 8.3 x 3.5 Cm Origin: Shigar Valley, Skardu District, Gilgit Baltistan...

17.16 Gram Pretty Tri Color Tourmaline Crystal From Paprok, Afghanistan Weight: 17.16 Gram Dimension: 2.6 x 3.3 x 1.3 Cm Origin: Paprok, Nooristan Province, Afghanistan Tourmalin...

98.71 Gram Gorgeous Emerald Specimen From Swat Valley, Pakistan Weight: 98.71 Gram Dimension: 6.6 x 4.3 x 3.1 Cm Origin: Swat Valley, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province, Pakistan Emera...

43.85 Carat Gorgeous Tourmaline Specimen With Albite From Skardu, Pakistan Weight: 43.85 Carat Dimension: 2.3 x 1.7 x 2.2 Cm Origin: Skardu Valley, Pakistan Tourmaline is a cry...

120.02 Gram Marvellous Emerald Specimen From Swat Valley, Pakistan Weight: 120.02 Gram Dimension: 6.7 x 3.3 x 3.1 cm Origin: Swat Valley, Khyber Pukhtunkhuwa Province, Pakistan ...

33.77 Gram Adorable Green Tourmaline Specimen From Stak Nala, Gilgit, Pakistan Weight: 33.77 Gram Dimension: 3.2 x 3.9 x 2.6 Cm Origin: Sta...

62.10 Gram Beautiful Feldspar Specimen From Skardu, Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan Weight: 62.10 gram Dimension: 6.2 x 4.6 x 2.8 Cm Origin : Skardu, Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan Feldspar...

Forest Green Color Epidote included Quartz Weight: 50.00 gram Dimension: 4.2 x 3.9 x 1.8 Cm Origin: Baluchistan, Pakistan Epidote, a calcium aluminium iron sorosilcate mineral, occ...

462.24 Gram Attractive Lazurite Specimen With Pyrite From Badakhshan, Aghanistan Weight: 462.24 Gram Dimension: 8.5 x 9 x 6.2 Cm Origin : Badakhsha...

Gorgeous Elongated Aquamarine Specimen From Afghanistan Weight: 457.93 Gram Dimension: 9 x 10 x 7.2 Cm Origin : Afghanistan Aquamarine helps us to gain insight, truth, and wisdo...

Glamorous Aquamarine Specimen From Nagar Valley Gilgit, Pakistan WEIGHT: 110 gram DIMENSIONS: 10.9 x2.5 x 1.8 Cm ORIGIN: Nagar Valley, Gilgit Baltistan Pakistan TREATMENT: None...

Gorgeous Bi-Color Tourmaline Specimen From Kunar, Afghanistan WEIGHT: 47.10 Carat DIMENSIONS: 2.6 x 2.7 x 1.0 Cm ORIGIN: Kunar, Afghanistan TREATMENT: None Tourmaline is an ex...

Stunning Tourmaline On Smoky Quartz From Paprook Mine, Afghanistan WEIGHT: 18.25 Carat DIMENSIONS: 1.8 x 2.4 x 0.7 Cm ORIGIN: Nuristan, Afghanistan TREATMENT : None Tourmaline...

Natural black tourmaline twins specimen elongated on mica mother Rock WEIGHT : 59.48 grams DIMENSIONS : 2.677 x 1.77 x 0.944 cm ORIGIN : Skardu Valley, Pakistan TREATMENT None Tourm...

Rider. Polychrome terracotta. Ming period. H 30cm. L 27cm. W 11cm. 1200€.

Pair of Candlesticks, Louis XVI, Gilded Bronze and Griotte Marble

A complete Fossil Garial Crocodile skull with original associated vertebrae. The bone tissue from this Dyrosaurus, now fossilised and preserved, exhibits distinct detail of the textu...

Immerse yourself in the rich narrative of our planet's past and witness the extraordinary resilience of life itself with this rare discovery within this authentic Devonian seabed exc...