Large Medici Alabaster Vase, Rome, Circa 1800

Crater-shaped vase with side handles in the form of scrolls wrapped on a stepped base. Arched foot with flared and ribbed base. On the visible part is a mask of Bacchus. The edge is flared and decorated with round picots. Italian sculptors achieved virtuoso perfection in the alabaster material, as evidenced by the numerous pieces exhibited in important Italian museums. Few large, complex objects have been preserved without damage, alabaster being a very fragile material. Central Italy/Rome circa 1800-20