87
A rare swan centrepiece
Estimate
25.000 - 30.000
Session 1
2 June 2026
Description
In white porcelain, richly modelled in a naturalistic form, with incised plumage and a gracefully curved neck entwined with reeds
Attributed to the Doccia manufactory, founded by Carlo Ginori
Europe, mid-18th century
Additional Information
The Doccia Porcelain Manufactory, founded in 1735 by Carlo Ginori, was a pioneer in the production of hard-paste porcelain in Italy. It drew inspiration from classical pieces and sculptures in prominent European collections. Renowned for its reproductions of masterpieces from Antiquity and the Renaissance, the manufactory excelled in technical sophistication and artistic refinement, creating pieces tailored to the tastes of 18th-century European aristocracy.
This centrepiece, modelled in the form of a swan in a dynamic pose, stands out for its sculptural complexity and fluid detailing, traits frequently associated with Doccia’s work. The swan, depicted with an elegantly curved neck and surrounded by foliage, reflects the manufactory’s exceptional technical ability, producing large-scale porcelain sculptures using moulds derived from classical works or natural models.
The attribution of this piece to the Doccia manufactory is supported by comparisons with documented works, particularly in its use of decorative elements and modelling techniques that reflect the characteristic style of the Florentine manufactory. Moreover, similar pieces, including large-scale sculptures with naturalistic themes, are part of Doccia’s known repertoire, further supporting the possibility that this centrepiece is part of its artistic legacy.
The historical and aesthetic importance of works like this places them among the finest examples of 18th-century European porcelain, underscoring Carlo Ginori’s commitment to merging technical innovation with artistic grandeur.
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