Large antique Italian Grand Tour red wax intaglios in giltwood frame

Large antique Italian Grand Tour red wax intaglios in giltwood frame
Italian, Early 19th Century
Panel: Height 34cm, width 50cm
Frame: Height 48cm, width 65cm, depth 8cm

This large and impressive collection consists of a fine set of red wax Grand Tour intaglios, elegantly mounted within a glazed giltwood frame.

Of both oval and circular form, the intaglios depict a variety of Classical mythological figures and scenes. Their rich red wax surfaces enhance the crispness of the modelling, giving the designs a true sense of life and lending the collection a strong decorative presence.

Red wax intaglios such as these were purchased by aristocrats during their Grand Tour of Europe. These journeys, lasting months or even years, were seen as the culmination of a young gentleman’s education, combining exposure to antiquity, art, and contemporary culture. Collections like this acted as souvenirs of these travels and as reminders of the great works encountered across the continent.

This superb and unusual set offers both decorative appeal and an authentic link to the educational journeys of the past. Beautifully preserved, and carefully mounted, it is a refined emblem of taste and learning - a desirable addition to any collection of Grand Tour souvenirs or Classical revival works.