Antique 19th Century Austrian horn of rock crystal, silver - gilt and enamel cornucopia

Behold, a magnificent 19th-century Austrian masterpiece—a horn of rock crystal transformed into a cornucopia, adorned with opulent silver gilt and enriched with painted enamel depictions. Nestled upon the back of a majestic winged creature, this remarkable piece stands as a testament to the artistry of its era.

The core of this exquisite horn is fashioned from rock crystal, its surface meticulously engraved and embellished with bands of silver gilt mounts. These mounts, in turn, serve as canvases for an array of mythological and Classical vignettes, each brimming with romantic and mythological scenes that transport us to a bygone era of storytelling and opulence.

Embossed upon the silver gilt mounts are scenes that transcend time and captivate the beholder's imagination. Here, we find mythological tales brought to life with intricate enamel detailing. Romantic scenes of love and passion intertwine with mythological narratives, creating a harmonious fusion of emotions and legends.

Noteworthy in its provenance, this splendid creation bears the Austrian silver control mark, signifying its adherence to the 800 standard—a hallmark used between 1867 and 1922. The horn itself hails from Vienna, a city renowned for its rich artistic heritage. It was crafted during the late 19th century, around 1890, by the skilled hands of Karl Bank, whose mastery in silverwork was recognized during his active years from 1895 to 1924.

In essence, this 19th-century Austrian cornucopia horn stands as a magnificent testament to an era where artistry, myth, and romance converged, offering a glimpse into a time of intricate craftsmanship and boundless creativity.

Dimensions:
Length x width x height: 22.5 x 19 x 20 cm
Weight: 560 grams in total

Condition: This exquisite 19th-century Austrian cornucopia horn, while pre-owned, bears only subtle traces of its previous use. Its condition remains excellent, with minor signs of gentle wear that enhance its overall charm and character.

HISTORY

Cornucopia - In classical antiquity, the cornucopia from Latin cornu ( horn ) and copia ( abundance ), also called the horn of plenty, was a symbol of abundance and nourishment, commonly a large horn-shaped container overflowing with produce, flowers, or nuts.

In modern depictions, the cornucopia is typically a hollow, horn-shaped wicker basket filled with various kinds of festive fruit and vegetables. In most of North America, the cornucopia has come to be associated with Thanksgiving and the harvest. Cornucopia is also the name of the annual November Food and Wine celebration in Whistler, British Columbia, Canada. Two cornucopias are seen in the flag and state seal of Idaho. The Great Seal of North Carolina depicts Liberty standing and Plenty holding a cornucopia.

ITEM LOCATION : United Kingdom
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Included: Complimentary Gift Wrap Packaging & Certificate of Evaluation.
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