Zoomorphic composition with shell - Europe, 19th century

Cymbiola Imperialis, from the Philippines, resting on a rectangular base on which stands a fantastical creature, with a hybrid and complex appearance, composed of the head of a sphinx, the wings of a dragon, the tail of a snake, the front legs of a lion and the breasts of a woman. On top of the creature is a shell, which completes the composition and enhances its verticality and theatricality. The whole piece displays a stylistic approach that combines fantastical and natural elements, typical of European decorative production intended for collectibles and cabinets of curiosities, with great attention to detail and the modelling of forms.



Count Luigi Rigi Luperti collection.
Item condition grading: **** good.
The lot is in a good state of preservation with the normal wear and defects commensurate with its age and use over time.