Italian silver-plated crab-form caviar dish attributed to Franco Lapini

Italian silver-plated crab-form caviar dish attributed to Franco Lapini
Italian, c. 1970
Height 9cm, width 26cm, depth 24cm
 
This sensational caviar dish takes the form of a large crab, and is a wonderfully quirky collector’s item. Expert craftsmanship can be seen in the moulding: the legs of the crab have been evocatively carved to recreate the scaly texture, and even the underside of the model has been designed to replicate the animal’s anatomy. The hinged top is inset with two blue glass eyes, and the top opens to reveal a deep navy glass inner dish.
 
The model is attributed to the Florentine silversmith Franco Lapini, who was known for creating refined pieces inspired by the eclecticism of 16th century Florentine tableware. The Lapini workshop to this day continues to create pieces for an elite international clientele. 
 
The piece is marked ‘RR’ and with a rubbed ‘Almazan’ mark on the underside.
 
A highly similar model was sold at Sotheby’s in 2020 for £7,560.
 
Filled with charming character, this piece recalls the Renaissance whimsy that inspired Lapini, and would make a wonderful addition to any collection of antiques.
 
Artist/Maker: Franco Lapini