the oval bowl of the wine cooler rests on a similarly shaped foot comprised of a plain concave molding and a vertical base rim surmounted by a convex repoussé band; rim and bowl are linked in the center of either lone side of the oval bowl by a large cash male head surrounded by exhuborant scrolls and moldings Weight: 703 troy ounces = 48 lbs. and 3.29 oz.

Wine cistern, 1719–1720

expand_more

Silverexpand_more

The James S. Bell Memorial Fundexpand_more  61.56

During large banquets and parties, cisterns were used to chill wine bottles in cool water. This cistern was made for John Leveson-Gower, the First Earl Gower, and remained in the family until acquired by the Institute in 1961.

The superbly proportioned vessel is given power and individuality by two eccentrically-shaped handles bearing animals' masks on the upper volutes. Bold, faun-like masks spring from the body to support the vigorous leaf rim. Moulded panels on a ground of Régence-style scales enclose grotesque marks, and scrolls and shells are chased on the base. The sum of the parts demonstrates Paul de Lamerie's ability to produce, even in the early years of his career, a massive piece of highest quality.

Explore

Audio

Paul de Lamerie, Wine cistern (#714)
Details
Title
Wine cistern
Artist Life
(born Holland), 1688–1751
Role
Artist
Accession Number
61.56
Curator Approved

This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.

Does something look wrong with this image? Let us know

Zoom in on the left to the detail you'd like to save. Click 'Save detail' and wait until the image updates. Right click the image to 'save image as' or copy link, or click the image to open in a new tab.

the oval bowl of the wine cooler rests on a similarly shaped foot comprised of a plain concave molding and a vertical base rim surmounted by a convex repoussé band; rim and bowl are linked in the center of either lone side of the oval bowl by a large cash male head surrounded by exhuborant scrolls and moldings Weight: 703 troy ounces = 48 lbs. and 3.29 oz.