18th Century Grand Tour Roman Sarcophagus

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About the Item

Almost certainly a memento of the aristocratic Grand Tour through Italy popular at the time of its creation, this rare and highly important 18th century marble was crafted in the form of an ancient Roman sarcophagus. Masterfully carved, finished in the round and smoothly hollowed from a singular block of white marble, this marvelous statuary masterpiece boasts ancient motifs executed with striking accuracy. Two extraordinary sphinxes carved in relief with intricate detail in their faces, feathered wings and clawed lions’ feet flank either side. Each stands guard with resplendent wingspan, hindquarters and curling tails wrapping around this museum-quality sarcophagus’ curves majestically. Dual classical calyx-krater vases are sculpted centrally on the front and rear sides between the sphinxes’ wingspans. An elegant egg and dart molding crowns the rim, further highlighting the sculptor’s supreme skill as well as the rarity and importance of this exquisite work of art. The entire sculptural piece is mounted on a stately marble plinth crafted of Verde Antico marble. This exceptional Roman sarcophagus bears a striking similarity to the Capri Altar, while its impressive carved sphinxes resemble the great Sphinx of Lanuvium, both held in the British Museum. Though early Romans predominantly practiced cremation in their funerary rites, their earlier ancestors — the Etruscans and Greeks — are famous for their finely made and often ostentatious sarcophagi. Thanks to the Roman Empire’s vast reach and co-mingling with ancient Egyptians, sarcophagi eventually became fashionable as the dominant burial rite of ancient Rome in the 2nd century. Sarcophagus decoration often depicted subjects and allegories derived from both Roman and Greek Olympian mythos. Sphinxes — Greek mythological creatures combining the head and breasts of a human woman, the body of a lion and the wings of an eagle — were popular grave markers and guardians of the tomb. This remarkable museum-quality marble Roman sarcophagus hails from an important titled British estate. It would certainly have been among the finest souvenirs of the Grand Tour, a venture undertaken by affluent members of English society to explore ancient cities, such as Rome, to explore their architecture, Fine arts and culture. This piece would have been a fitting souvenir of this journey of a lifetime. Italian, 18th century Measures: 15 1/4" high x 14" width x 7 1/2" depth.

Dimensions:
Height: 15.25 in (38.74 cm)Width: 14 in (35.56 cm)Depth: 7.5 in (19.05 cm)
Style:
Classical Roman (In the Style Of)
Materials and Techniques:
Marble
Place of Origin:
Italy
Period:
18th Century
Date of Manufacture:
Late 18th Century
Condition:
Seller Location:
New Orleans, LA
Reference Number:
Seller: 31-04781stDibs: LU891118127762

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