Finely Carved Italian Late C19th Alabaster 'Grand Tour' Souvenir Model of the Temple of Castor & Pollux .

Finely carved Italian late C19th alabaster 'Grand Tour ' souvenir model of the Temple of Castor & Pollux.

Located in The Forum , the Temple of Castor & Pollux constituted a key landmark in every visitor's 'Grand Tour' of Ancient Rome. Dedicated to the twin sons of Jupiter and Leda , also known as the Dioscuri, the temple was first erected to commemorate the Roman Republic's victory at the Battle of Lake Regillus in 496 BC , where the twins were said to have appeared on the battlefield.

This scale model of the ruined Temple remains , presents fluted columns and capitals of the Corinthian order supported by a high podium . The entablature consists of a three-step architrave , decorated with acanthus motif , a plain frieze, and a cornice with modillions framing recessed rosettes.

Skilfully and precisely carved from alabaster , stained and veined to resemble valued 'Giallo Antico' yellow marble . This is an accurate architectural scale-model representation of the Temple ruins , not to be confused with other inferior alabaster versions . Raised on a block base which bears the inscription "Foro Romano" .

The production of these high-quality expensive souvenirs for sale to the wealthy tourists completing the classical 'Grand Tour' was prolific throughout the C19th centred mainly in the workshops of Rome. Various materials and marbles were utilised , the alabaster employed here probably quarried in the Volterra region of Tuscany.

In excellent original condition with no breaks , losses or repairs. Very minor historic chips .

A smart desk-top addition to a 'Grand Tour' collection or library. The Temple of Castor & Pollux together with the other surviving architectural ruins of the Forum in Rome , became a major source of inspiration for the architects of Georgian England . Notable examples incorporating these elements include the frieze in the entrance of William Chamber's Somerset House, the capitals of Lord Burlington's Chiswick house and the columns of Robert Adam's Grand Marble Hall at Kedleston , Derbyshire.

H 15.5"

W 7"

D 2.5"

Italy , Rome c.1870

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