$475.00
Stunning vintage to antique hand-carved Italian alabaster tazza (or compote, or centerpiece) with a grape leaf motif and dolphin base in superb condition–see history below. The rim features stacked grape leaves alternating with open loops. The pedestal is made up of three intertwined dolphins facing downward with curved tails at the top. The design on the base alternates between three straight-line sides and three scalloped sides. Overall measurements are 7.5″ tall x 7″ overall diameter at the rim and 5″ interior diameter at the rim. Lovely delicate veining and translucence. Outstanding condition with no damage. Beautiful addition to a collection of Italian alabaster.
QUESTIONS? E-mail me:alegriacollection@gmail.com – do not use “contact shop” link.
1 in stock
HISTORY (from online sources): Italian carved alabaster tazze (shallow, stemmed dishes, Italian for “cups”) have a rich history, thriving from ancient Etruscan times, through Renaissance use as decorative centerpieces, and seeing a major revival in the 19th century, particularly in Tuscany (like Volterra), with artisans creating intricate, classically inspired designs featuring fruit, foliage, and mythological figures for display and table service, blending ancient materials with neoclassical and Baroque flair.
Tazze became popular as elegant serving dishes for fruit, sweets, or as table centerpieces, appearing in materials like alabaster and marble. The forms often drew from classical antiquity, a trend that continued and evolved. The 19th century saw a significant resurgence in alabaster carving, with Italian artisans producing elaborate tazze as decorative statements. Designs frequently featured intricate carvings of grapevines, flowers, garlands, cherubs, dolphins, and fruit, reflecting neoclassical styles, as noted in pieces by or in the manner of carvers like Lorenzo Cardelli (late 18th/early 19th century Rome). Carved from soft, white Tuscan alabaster, these pieces were often hand-chiseled and showcased high-relief decoration, making them sought-after collectibles.
SHIPPING: $10 flat rate shipping valid only for street addresses within contiguous United States; we cannot deliver to post office boxes. For shipping to Alaska, Hawaii and elsewhere, please contact us with your location for a custom shipping quote.
A WORD ABOUT VINTAGE: Our inventory consists of vintage or antique items which are more than 20 years old, usually used or pre-owned, unless marked “new old stock.” As such, there may be signs of wear and age, which we will disclose to the best of our ability. Nevertheless, we encourage you to carefully read the description and view the photos, especially when purchasing a gift. All items ship with tracking and insurance, and although we do not accept returns, we will offer a refund in case of breakage or damage during transit, upon receipt of sufficient proof.
Thank you for shopping at AlegriaCollection–and please visit the rest of my shop here:
Customer has up to 30 days unless vendor opts out of return policy per item to return a product for any reason such as damaged item, size, or unhappiness with product upon arrival. Read our full return policy.
I purchased two items from this shop. They arrived surprisingly quickly, and it was evident that extreme care was taken to ensure they arrived safely. I greatly appreciate the attention and extra care when packaging up the items. How sad it would be to purchase an antique that has survived multiple generations, only to be destroyed by USPS! Thank you so much for a wonderful shopping experience!
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Your Review
danicatheracecardriver –
Wonderful experience, meticulous packaging!
I purchased two items from this shop. They arrived surprisingly quickly, and it was evident that extreme care was taken to ensure they arrived safely. I greatly appreciate the attention and extra care when packaging up the items. How sad it would be to purchase an antique that has survived multiple generations, only to be destroyed by USPS! Thank you so much for a wonderful shopping experience!