This collection of 19th century Italian Grand Tour plaster relief cameos and plaques is available from Brownrigg Interiors for £6800.
An extensive collection of 19th century Italian Grand Tour plaster relief cameos and plaques are available from Brownrigg Interiors for £6800.
The collection of plaster casts was a popular pursuit for young men on the grand tour. Among the enthusiastic 19th century collectors was the German author Goethe, who is said to have owned thousands of casts.
Early intaglios, used as seals, were created by engraving into semi-precious stones or hardstones. While the originals were sometimes collected by young men on The Grand Tour, they became so popular that plaster reproductions were created as an alternative form of souvenir. Some were based on ancient gems, but others depicted larger artworks, both ancient and contemporary, to serve as reminders of the Tour. These collections could be mounted on the wall or in books when the Tour was over.
Comprising 24 trays within two mahogany boxes, this is a particularly large collection. It was previously in the collection of Hubert Faure (1919-2020) and was kept in his home in Albany, Piccadilly, London.
