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Nicholas Wells Antiques, renowned for its collection of exquisite and rare furnishings, presents a sculptural column that stands as a testament to the grandeur of 19th-century craftsmanship. This piece, hailed as one of the rarest sculptural columns in the world, is not just an antique but a slice of history carved into form and splendor.
The column is sculpted from stalactite alabastro, a material so rare that this piece is considered peerless. Stalactites are naturally occurring mineral formations, and alabastro is a term often used for varieties of soft marble or similar stones that have been subject to the whims of nature for countless millennia. Each pattern etched into this stone is a story of time, encapsulating a beauty that is both chaotic and divine.
The artisanship of this column is a vivid narrative of the era’s aesthetic sensibilities and the sculptor’s adept hand. It stands not merely as an object of decoration but as an architectural prodigy, a piece that is both structural and ornamental. Its dimensions of 105cm in height and 30cm in both width and depth make it a significant presence in any space, commanding attention and reverence.
Adorning the top and bottom of the column are gilt bronze mountings, featuring a crown and laurel leaf motif, elements that are often associated with triumph and regal elegance. The gilt bronze does not merely serve as a support but adds a rich visual contrast to the swirls of the alabastro—a metallic flourish to the earthen majesty of the stone.
The rarity of this column lies not only in its material and unique existence but also in the flawless condition it has maintained over the centuries. To possess such an item is to own a fragment of artistic legacy, to become the custodian of a work that transcends the boundaries of mere art and enters the realm of the extraordinary.
In conclusion, the Alabastro Stalactite Gilt Bronze Mounted Sculptural Column offered by Nicholas Wells Antiques is a marvel of natural artistry fused with human craftsmanship. It is an artifact that embodies the opulence and the innovative spirit of the 19th century, a museum-quality masterpiece that is unmatched in its rarity and splendor. For the discerning collector, this piece is not just an acquisition; it is an inheritance of cultural and artistic magnitude.
Nicholas Wells Antiques advisors are available to answer all your questions.
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Stock Number: 42029
This rarefied unique piece is subject to availability.
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Telephone: +44 (0) 207 6920 897
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In the UK Online sales of this kind are known as ‘distance selling’. We offer a refund to customers if you’ve told us within 3 days of receiving the goods that you want to cancel. You have another 14 days to return the goods once you’ve told us of your intention. A refund will be issued within 14 days of receiving the goods back in the same condition. Return shipping should be the same level as received with insurance, we recommend using the same shipper at your cost. If needed we will help organise suitable shipping.
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We will ship worldwide however the costs vary between countries so please email us for a quote. Depending on the item we will recommend the most suitable method.
Our preferred international shipping methods include fine art shippers Gander and White, Art Logistics, Cadogan Tate for items over £5,000. For Fedex, DHL or UPS shipments we expertly pack in-house in wooden crates or heavy duty cardboard – Suitable for most items under £5000. If you have your own shippers we are very happy to coordinate with them.
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All items are inclusive of all local taxes but may be subject to additional charges for importation and taxes local to the client. Antiques are zero-rated to the USA, all items ship with the correct paperwork. While we are not liable for these additional charges we do encourage clients to research these prior to purchasing items from us. We will make a full value disclosure, as required by the insurance, on all items sent overseas. This is required to ensure proper insurance cover in sending valuable items.
Where required we will oversee the completion of all export licenses for high-value items. We will also arrange for CITES paperwork for materials of endangered species including ivory, tortoiseshell, stuffed birds etc.
This is dependent on the size and value of the object, all items are checked over and polished before shipping and will generally have wooden crates made. This all takes time so expect 10 – 20 working days for delivery unless the item is small in which case 2-3 days from order.
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All our antiques now also come with an invoice as a Valuation Certificate for insurance purposes.