Elegance, Scholarship & Collecting Traditions
European works of art reflect centuries of taste, connoisseurship, and the decorative traditions that shaped the continent’s cultural history. From the souvenirs of the Grand Tour collected by aristocrats on their travels, to neoclassical sculpture, fine paintings, and the accessories that once graced Europe’s grand galleries, each piece tells a story of refinement and erudition.
At Nicholas Wells Antiques, we curate a distinguished selection of European Works of Art spanning sculpture, paintings, decorative objects, and collectors’ accessories, sourced from the finest private collections across Europe. Many are museum-quality objects, embodying the artistry and intellectual curiosity that defined European collecting from the Renaissance to the 19th century.
Explore the Collection
Sculpture
From marble busts and bronze figures to ornamental vases and neoclassical tazzas, our European sculpture represents the sculptural revival of the 17th to 19th centuries. Often inspired by antiquity, these works formed the heart of aristocratic interiors and Grand Tour collections.
The Grand Tour
The ultimate mark of education and taste, the Grand Tour brought English and European travellers to Rome, Florence, and Venice. They returned with models of classical vases, scagliola panels, bronzes, and objets d’art that symbolised their erudition. Our Grand Tour section celebrates these timeless souvenirs of learning and culture.
Pictures & Paintings
Our fine art offering includes Old Master paintings, works on paper, and rare decorative panels. From 18th-century appliqué silk panels to European portraiture, these works provide both aesthetic richness and historical insight.
Gallery Accessories: Pedestals, Easels & Frames
Antiques are often best appreciated in context. Our collection of pedestals, easels, frames, and gallery furnishings allows collectors to display works of art as they were intended — elevating sculpture, paintings, and objects within elegant interiors.
Objects
A broad category encompassing silver, porcelain, ormolu, enamel, glass, and decorative works of art from across Europe. These pieces, whether a pair of ormolu cassolettes, a Blue John urn, or an enamel centerpiece, bring colour, craftsmanship, and presence to any collection.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is included under “European Works of Art”?
This section covers sculpture, Grand Tour artefacts, paintings, gallery accessories, and decorative objects spanning the 17th to early 20th centuries.
Are the works authentic antiques?
Yes. Every piece is carefully vetted and catalogued, with provenance provided where available. We specialise in museum-quality works sourced from major collections.
Do you offer complete Grand Tour collections?
We offer both individual works and curated groups, from scagliola panels and bronze vases to Blue John urns and shellworks.
What is the price range?
European Works of Art range from around £5,000 for smaller decorative objects to over £85,000 for rare museum-level pieces.
Can these objects be integrated into modern interiors?
Absolutely. A marble vase, ormolu-mounted porcelain, or gilt-bronze candelabrum provides dramatic impact in contemporary settings while retaining timeless elegance.
Do you provide pedestals or frames for display?
Yes. We offer antique and bespoke pedestals, easels, and frames designed to complement works of art and sculpture.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes. All works are shipped worldwide using fine art logistics partners, fully insured.
Explore Nicholas Wells Antiques’ European Works of Art – where sculpture, objects, and treasures of the Grand Tour meet the highest standards of artistry and collecting tradition.
