Lot number 1704 - Auction 150
BEDEUTENDE SPÄTGOTISCHE TAZZA MIT WAPPEN DER FAMILIE BICCHI IN SIENA (ITALIEN)

AN IMPORTANT LATE GOTHIC TAZZA WITH THE COAT OF ARMS OF THE BICCHI FAMILY IN SIENA (ITALY) Italy, after 1433 Copper, gilded, partly embossed, enameled coat of arms. H. 12 cm, D. 19.5 cm. This magnificent tazza with a baluster-shaped ribbed shaft with nodus rises above a richly ornamented, embossed hexagonal foot, which is decorated with naturalistic leaves and flowers in relief. The flat domed bowl made of gilded copper is decorated in the centre with an enamelled medallion showing a coat of arms with an imperial eagle and a lion's head. The heraldry is flanked by a stylised laurel wreath in red and green. The coat of arms was granted to the Bicchi family by Emperor Sigismund in 1433. The artistic combination of metalwork and enamel painting testifies to the high quality of courtly or bourgeois objects of representation. Partially worn. In addition to their profane function as tableware, these exquisitely crafted footed bowls served as display vessels on buffets or as pieces in cabinets of curiosities. The depictions frequently shown in the mirror could refer to historical events or festive occasions. Provenance: North German private collection.