Monumental 19th Century Italian Micromosaic of the Vatican

19th century plaster relief model of the Alhambra by Rafael Contreras Spanish, Late 19th Century Height 70cm, width 45cm, depth 7cm This exceptional plaster relief model captures the architectural splendour of the Alhambra and was crafted by the esteemed Spanish architect and artists, Rafael Contreras (1826–1890). As the official architect of the Alhambra from 1847, Contreras played a key role in restoring the historic palace. Alongside his architectural work, he meticulously produced plaster replicas of the facades he was refurbishing. The model in Mayfair Gallery’s collection showcases a beautifully detailed façade from the Alhambra in Granada. This relief, cast from a mould, highlights an elaborate arched entryway. A finely sculpted polychrome tile mosaic dado surrounds the base, while the arch itself is framed by an exquisite combination of epigraphic, geometric, and foliate ornamentation. Above, three arched windows feature delicate pierced tracery, further enhanced by intricate carved embellishments. A notable feature of this model is the richly decorated entrance inset. Adding to its historical significance, the panel bears the signature ‘Modelos de la Alhambra por Contreras’ in the lower right corner. It is housed in an elegant glazed wooden frame, complementing its refined craftsmanship. The reverse retains a fragment of the original paper label, a hallmark of Contreras’ models, which likely detailed the subject matter for travellers. Additionally, a later stamp from a picture restorer is visible. A superb example of architectural artistry, this antique plaster relief...

This Fine, circular micromosaic plaque shows four doves drinking water from a golden bowl, upon which they perch. The Classical design for the mosaic is taken from one found in the Roman Emperor Hadrian's villa in the 2nd century AD. Hadrian's mosaic, which was on the floor as is traditional, was probably based on a design by Sosus of Pergamon, a Greek master artist. Known as the Capitoline Doves...

Pair of 19th century bronzed electrotype plaques French, late 19th century Frames: Height 61cm, width 71.5cm, depth 12cm Panels: Height 42cm, width 52cm, depth 6cm Hailing from the late 19th century, this remarkable duo of bronzed electrotype figural plaques stands as a testament to the creative prowess of the French sculptor Étienne Alexandre Stella...

This fine enamel plaque is notable both for its large size and the exquisite contrast produced between the rich, blue enamel backdrop against the grey foreground, created using the g...

An Italian Micromosaic (micro mosaic) plaque of the "Doves of Pliny", Vatican workshop, late 19th century, Rome within giltwood frame carved with acan...

Small and lovely Italian Holy Water font from Italy, a shaped polychrome ceramic artwork dating back to Neoclassical period, early 19th century. This rare religious work is finely ...

PAIR OF MONUMENTAL CARVED PANELS FROM THE 18TH CENTURY IMPORTANT SPANISH BAROQUE 18TH CENTURY WOODEN PANELS ATTRIBUTED TO: Luis Bonifás y...

A lovely pair of portrait miniatures of two ladies, by a French skillful artist who painted in fine pointille technique on paper this pair of portraits in the 1870s circa. Set in tw...