Michieli Guglielmo Terracotta sculpture depicting a dipper, a modestly dressed girl with a cauldron

Michieli Guglielmo Terracotta sculpture from the early 20th century depicting a scoop, modestly dressed girl with a cauldron or container in her hand. The figure is well modeled in terracotta, perfectly calibrated, and rests on a round base with the signature G. Michieli, a Venetian sculptor Guglielmo Michieli (1855-1944), active in the Veneto region since the last quarter of the 19th century.

What characterizes this work is that even through simple, sketchy, and rough modeling, it stands out with impeccable anatomical accuracy of the silhouette, body, and face, achieved thanks to an extraordinary ability for plastic synthesis. 

It is in good condition, aside from minor chips. It dates from the early 20th century and comes from a private Milanese residence.

Exclusive 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 items that have a distinct character and soul. This is a nod to history, craftsmanship, and the design of classic and timeless furniture. There are many different styles in antique furniture, each with its own distinctive features.

There are many styles characteristic of antique furniture, but a few key ones can be distinguished. Eclectic furniture originates from the 19th century, during the reign of the Biedermeier style. Its variants in the early years of this century include neo-Gothic, Gothic, Rococo, Louis Philippe style, and finally the English Victorian style. By the end of the century, these styles evolved into pseudo-classicism, Renaissance, and Baroque styles.

Empire-style furniture dates from the period between the late 18th and early 19th centuries. It was influenced by Napoleon’s reign, which imposed a resemblance to Roman and Greek decorative motifs.

Neoclassical furniture is associated with Louis XVI style, which also draws heavily from ancient architecture. Interesting and noteworthy are antique products in Rococo and Louis XV styles. The next is Baroque, a term derived from the Portuguese 'barocco'—meaning an irregularly developed pearl. These were highly ornate pieces designed to shimmer 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 classic furniture, which is designed with a strong resemblance to the historical period. An important style as well is Renaissance, which flourished in the 15th and 16th centuries and also left a significant mark on furniture-making art. Renaissance furniture was quite heavy and bulky, using brown stains, moldings, sturdy bases, and reliefs. These were quite distinctive products, but they also opened new possibilities, such as the construction of cupboards and broadly speaking, chest furniture. During this period, mythology and ancient times were also of interest, so supports and legs often took animal forms.

Lion’s paws, eagle heads—these are common motifs in Renaissance style. Currently, many global brands reproduce such furniture inspired by Italian and French creators. This reflects admiration and respect for the history of the most beautiful Renaissance antiques. It is important to remember that furniture production was perceived differently in each country, so each style had its unique character. This is especially important when searching for a suitable exclusive antique for your interior.

The most important aspect of stylish antique furniture is originality. And this is ultimately crucial from the buyer’s perspective, as many fakes circulate on the market. Luxury Products provides documentation confirming the product’s authenticity and compliance with the description and photos. We have appraisers, art experts, historians, and specialists from around the world at your disposal.