Antique silver and crystal compotier from the first half of the 19th century

Ancient silver and crystal compote from the first half of the 19th century, with a lid made of melted, embossed, carved, and cut crystal silver, Milan 19th century, Goldsmith Cristoforo Corbella operating until 1860. Located in the Orefici district, 3194.

It rests on a triangular base made of centered foil with a monogram B L engraved in large cursive letters; from the corners, a trivet begins, decorated with neoclassical motifs in volutes, connected by spirals with rosettes, supporting a round upper ring made of perforated, embossed, and engraved sheet metal, which contains an engraved crystal chalice. The rolled foil lid ends with a socket with a cast jewel.

Marks placed on the upper edge and below the base of the artifact refer to the Milanese state for the second silver hallmark (800/000) along with a mark with the insignia of a full moon in a circular field, with CC numbers referring to goldsmith Cristoforo Corbella, active until 1860 in the Orefici district, 3194.

Corbella is a well-known Milanese goldsmith from the first half of the 19th century, and his works are found in the treasuries of many churches and in refined private collections. (see G. Sambonet, Gli argenti Milanesi, Milano 1987, page 181).

Exquisite antique furniture and accessories can be an excellent idea for decorating our interiors. Currently, there is a growing number of enthusiasts for high-quality vintage products that have a specific character and soul. It’s a nod to history, craftsmanship, and the creation of classic and timeless furniture. There are many different styles in antique furniture, each with its distinctive features.

Many styles characterize antique furniture, but a few are particularly prominent. Eclectic furniture refers to the 19th century, which coincides with the dominant Biedermeier style. Its early variations include neo-Gothic, Gothic, Rococo, Louis-Philippe style, and finally the English Victorian style. By the end of the century, these styles transition into pseudo-classicism, Renaissance, and Baroque styles.

Empire-style furniture dates from the period between the late 18th and early 19th centuries. It originated during Napoleon’s reign, characterized by significant similarities and references to Roman and Greek ornamentation.

Neoclassical furniture reflects the Louis XVI style, which also strongly references ancient architecture. Antique products in Rococo and Louis XV styles are interesting and noteworthy. Next is Baroque, a term derived from the Portuguese 'barocco'—meaning an irregularly developed pearl. These were highly decorative pieces meant to shine with splendor and play a significant role in luxury. Unique, selectively used materials were employed to emphasize the grandeur of these items.

Today, we can observe how much influence the Baroque style has had on modern classical furniture, which is designed with a strong resemblance to the past era. An important style is also Renaissance, which flourished in the 15th and 16th centuries and left a significant mark on furniture-making art. Renaissance furniture was quite heavy and massive, using brown stains, moldings, sturdy bases, and reliefs. These were quite distinctive products but also opened new possibilities, such as the construction of cabinets and broadly speaking, chest furniture. There was also an interest in mythology and ancient times, so supports and legs often took animal forms.

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