Gesso Models and Miniatures

Antique Spanish Baroque carved giltwood sunburst mirror with crest. Spain, 19th century. This lovely collection mirror has a carved frame covered with gesso and gold leaf finishing....

Rafael Contreras, A Large Spanish Alhambra Architectural Model Plaque. Late 19th century. Polychrome and gilt gesso. Original printed paper label vers...

This rare German papier mâché teaching model measures over 36 inches long and 21.5 inches tall. The base is wood and splits in two along with the cow. One side shows a beautiful real...

Early 20th century European clock tower automaton figures We are proud to offer an extremely rare set of European clock tower automaton figures, in the form of Persian / Turkish male dressed figures. Dated from the early 20th century, hand carved from wooden sections and detailed in gesso and paint. In completely original condition, later these figures have been secured to a 19th century ebonized wooden base for display purposes. These figures still have their original mechanisms in place, the metal rods extended from their backs, once pulled raise both hands and head, the mechanism is simple and on a pulley system. It is likely these figures would have been part of a larger group, which would have been animated once the clock tower struck upon the hour. This is the first time we have ever been able to obtain artifacts of this nature, and they are exceedingly rare in completely original form. Size in inches: H 24” x W 21” x D 10” Origin: Europe Period: 1900-1920 Material: Wood & Gesso Condition: These items are completely solid in structure and form. Wear is present across all the surfaces which includes crackled paint, worn surfaces, chipped gesso, and faded paint, these items are firmly secured to base pictured. The velour clothing...