A pair of antique Wunderkammer Naturalia mineral specimen over carved wood base: the calcite flowers and pyromorphite crystals, Italy 1880.

Italy circa 1880.

A perfect marriage of the scientific curiosity of the era and the high decorative value characteristic of cabinets of curiosities (Wunderkammern). The minerals (calcite flowers and pyromorphite crystals) are mounted on two splendid carved and giltwood balusters. This type of mounting served to elevate the Naturalia (the natural specimen) to the rank of a work of art through the intervention of Artificialia (man-made artifice), in keeping with the collecting tastes of the Grand Tour and the encyclopedic spirit of the nineteenth century. The passion for scientific-naturalist decor experienced a significant revival during the second half of the 19th century. In Italy, the creation of small decorative ‘microcosms’—mounting crystals, fossils, or coral branches on small pedestals to adorn private studies, libraries, and aristocratic salons—became a true status symbol for both the high bourgeoisie and the nobility. The bulbous, shapely design of the bases, with its Neo-Baroque undertones, is perfectly consistent with the eclectic Umbertino style (late 19th century) prevalent in Italy circa 1880.

5,5” – 13 CM H 3,5” – 9 CM L 2,5” – 6 CM D

V1498