ITALIAN SILVER AMPHORA-FORM VASE , 20TH CENTURY
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An Italian silver vase executed in a classical amphora form, representing a refined example of Italian decorative arts of the 20th century. The elongated body is articulated with pronounced vertical fluting, enhancing the elegance of the silhouette and creating a dynamic play of light across the surface. The flared neck with a softly undulating rim transitions harmoniously into the rounded shoulder, preserving architectural clarity and balanced proportions.
The vase is fitted with two symmetrically placed foliate handles, modelled as stylised vegetal scrolls with careful detailing and restrained plasticity. The base is formed as a circular foot with radiating fluting, echoing the decoration of the body and providing visual stability. The silver surface displays a soft, noble sheen with a natural patina characteristic of Italian artistic silver of the 20th century.
Crafted in silver of 800 standard, in accordance with Italian and European assay traditions, the vase was conceived primarily as an interior decorative object. Such pieces were intended either as standalone sculptural accents or as vessels for floral and decorative arrangements, reflecting refined taste and social status.
Marks: Italian silver hallmark with fineness mark “800”, consistent with 20th-century Italian silver.
Dimensions: Height: 26 cm. Diameter: 14 cm.
Weight: 545 g.
Condition: Good. The surface shows light natural patina and minor traces of age consistent with period. No dents, cracks, or restorations observed.
Amphora-form silver vases occupy an important place in European decorative arts of the 20th century, continuing the legacy of classical antiquity reinterpreted through Neoclassical and historicist aesthetics. In Italy, the enduring dialogue with ancient heritage remained a defining artistic impulse throughout the century, manifesting itself in architecture, interior design, and silverwork.
Italian silver production of the 20th century was grounded in strong artisanal traditions established in earlier centuries, while gradually adapting to modern production realities. Workshops in Milan, Florence, Rome, and Venice maintained high standards of hand-finishing, focusing on proportion, surface modelling, and the expressive qualities of form. Silver of 800 standard became the accepted norm, offering durability while allowing refined decorative treatment.
Vases of this type were designed as interior focal points for urban residences, villas, and representative salons. Their symmetry, disciplined proportions, and restrained ornamentation corresponded to the taste of the period, favouring harmony, clarity, and classical restraint. The vertical fluting enhances the sculptural volume and accentuates the reflective qualities of silver.
The foliate handles recall classical symbolism associated with abundance, fertility, and continuity, long embedded in Italian artistic language. In 20th-century interpretations, such motifs were rendered with greater sobriety and elegance, aligning with the aesthetic sensibilities of the era.
These silver vases occupied a position between utilitarian objects and interior sculpture. Intended less for daily use than for visual impact, they served to articulate space and to affirm a cultural continuity rooted in Italy’s classical past.
The vase is in good overall condition. Minor surface wear and natural patina are present, consistent with age and use. The structure is stable, the form fully preserved, with no evidence of restoration or structural damage.
The condition report is provided for informational purposes only.
It is not comprehensive and may not reflect all defects, restorations, alterations, or adaptations, as Antiqon does not perform professional conservation-level assessments. The information is based on a qualified, yet subjective, evaluation by our specialists.Before purchasing, we recommend consultation with an independent expert.Please also consult our Terms and conditions and Glossary A-Z, which contain important information on lot characteristics and sale conditions.
