Silver Leaf Planters, Cachepots and Jardinières

Hollywood Regency vintage brass or bronze seashell nautilus planter with silver leafed finish. Very detailed. Good overall condition with minor wear t...

A fabulous pair of Venetian silver gilt and polychromed jardinières carved in the fantasy grotto style, Venice, Italy, early 20th century. Hand carved from wood with silver and polychrome gilding, the jardinières or planters take the form of a giant clam shell supported by strapping mermen. The massive shell forms, featuring sensuously undulating lips and ridges, serve as the planters, the interiors silver gilt, while the exterior exhibits a darker, silvery green tone. The shells are offered up by well-muscled mermen who float effortlessly on their backs, one arm raised to support the massive shells balanced on their scaled, fishtail legs. The entirely supported on conch shaped legs, with a myriad of other shells forming the apron in various shades of red and green silver gilding. Perfectly usable as planters, though my fantasy is to use these as serving pieces, filled with ice - one for champagne, the other for oysters or caviar. The rich, original finish boasts a warm and mellow patina. Original tin lining to the interior of the planters. Fantasy Grotto furniture was a trend started in Venice, Italy in the later part of the 19th century, continuing through the early part of the 20th century. The furniture is marked by decidedly sea themes, with shells being the main decorative motif. Whole suites of furniture were made in this Fantasy Grotto style, from sleigh beds to rocking chairs, settees and, most commonly, side chairs. This is the only pair of large jardinières...