C19th Italian Carved Alabaster 'Grand Tour' Souvenir Model of the Baptistery, Pisa , Italy.

C19th Italian carved alabaster 'GrandTour' souvenir model of the Baptistery, Pisa , Italy.

Intricately carved alabaster scale model of the domed roof Baptistery from the Piazza Dei Miracoli (Field of Miracles) in Pisa.

The Baptistery was began in 1153 in a Romanesque style under Diotisalvi and completed in the 1300's in the Gothic style under the guidance of Nicola and Giovanni Pisano. The Gothic dome was added by Cellino di Nese. The Baptistery (Battistero di San Giovanni) in Pisa is the largest in Italy , enclosing important furnishings, including a font and Pisano pulpit .

The skilfully carved model with incredible attention to accurate detail. Some historic minor losses and some repairs and cracks to the dome . The lift-off finial top has also suffered some damage and repair , with the cross surmount missing. Possibly designed to take a candle inside which would illuminate the almost translucent and finely-carved alabaster stone.

Architectural models such as this were produced by Italian craftsmen and sculptors, for sale to wealthy tourists as souvenirs of their 'Grand Tour' of the sites and sights of classical Europe during the C18th and C19th centuries.

Mounted on a circular block base of 'antico verde ' green marble .

H 10.5"

W 7"

D 7"

Italy c.1880

Established in the Cathedral City of Worcester for over 40 years ,M.Lees&Sons , run by Michael Lees ,have been dealing with public and trade from show-rooms in an early Georgian town-house. We aim to provide a straight-forward approach to our business and build lasting relationships with our customers. As members of the 'London and Provincial Antique Dealers Association' , we provide full descriptive details , date ,authenticity and any available provenance ,with full disclosure of any restoration or repair which may have taken place .

Whether buying for pleasure , decoration or investment, we welcome you to our web-site or premises .

Past projects have included advising clients on forming and disposing of collections , furnishing period properties , hotel and commercial projects , also a shoot-room and lodge .

All goods are available to view and owned by M.Lees & Sons .

If visiting, a telephone call prior is advisable as due to the demands of the business the show-room does not have regular hours . Please feel free to contact us if we can be of assistance . Our inventory on the website Selling Antiques .co.uk showcases our range of stock, whilst more items are available to view on our website. Please visit us on:

www.leesantiquesworcester.com.

Tel. 01905 26620 / 07860826218

Located in the centre of Worcester in the shadow of the Cathedral with easy parking nearby. Exit Junction 7 M5 and follow the signs for Worcester Porcelain Museum . Our premises are located 100 metres from the Museum and 50 metres from Pay&Display car-park in nearby King St.