19th C Swiss Brienz Carved Walnut Lidded Chalice, Circa 1880

A superb exhibition quality Swiss Brienz carved walnut lidded chalice of exceptional craftsmanship, dating to circa 1880.

Originating from the renowned carving centre of Brienz, Switzerland, this remarkable hand carved chalice is an outstanding example of the region's celebrated woodcarving tradition. Brienz has long been admired for producing some of Europe's finest decorative wood carvings, and the quality and intricacy of this piece suggest it was created as an exhibition or master craftsman's work.

Expertly hand turned and meticulously hand carved from walnut, the chalice stands on a flared circular base decorated with a finely carved foliate border. The elegant stem rises through a beaded collar to three beautifully carved Swiss rural figures, who appear to support the vessel above.

Encircling the body of the chalice is a wonderfully detailed and engaging continuous rural scene. Three Swiss farm workers, accompanied by a faithful herding dog, attempt to coax two stubborn oxen pulling a farm cart. The charming composition unfolds before a traditional farmhouse, surrounded by finely carved trees and lush vegetation, demonstrating the carver's remarkable attention to detail and storytelling ability.

The matching domed lid features a carved foliate border and rises to a moulded knop surmounted by a closed flower bud. The finial is particularly unusual, depicting two figures locked together in what is almost certainly a representation of Schwingen, the traditional Swiss Alpine wrestling sport, adding both character and cultural significance to this exceptional piece.

Presented in excellent original condition, the chalice retains a beautiful rich patina and outstanding surface finish acquired over more than 140 years.

A rare and highly decorative example of Swiss Brienz carving, combining masterful craftsmanship with a wonderfully animated narrative scene.

Origin: Switzerland (Brienz)

Date: Circa 1880

Dimensions:

Height: 30.5 cm (12 in)

Width: 9.5 cm (3¾ in)

Depth: 9.5 cm (3¾ in)

Robert Belcher Antiques was established in 1984 and is a high-quality retailer of interesting, rare antiques and decorative objects. After forty years of shop keeping and maintaining beautiful showrooms, which have been regularly open six days a week, Robert and Wendy have now taken a slightly different approach to their business. Having sold their retail premises, the antique business is now fully online. The picture framing service has ceased to operate because of moving online.

You can contact Robert and Wendy by email or telephone to discuss items from their extensive catalogue of attractive pieces and make purchases. Customers can rest assured that the long-established dealership is continuing to run in an exceedingly professional way, selling genuine and high-quality items which are guaranteed to please the most discerning collector, decorator or homeowner.

All items will be personally hand packaged to a high standard. Small items are extensively wrapped using the best materials and are often double boxed. Items are then shipped with DHL or Royal Mail fully insured and often with next day delivery. Larger items would be personally delivered or sent with a specialist antique delivery firm, or for outside the U.K, a professional shipping company.

Please enjoy viewing their collection of rare and interesting pieces and have the assurance that Robert and Wendy will do their utmost to make sure your experience is exceptional, as has been recognised by many customers who have bought with confidence regularly over the years.

Contact details

Email: robertbelcherantiques@gmail.com

Telephone: 01905 622468

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07720 607007

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