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The sculpture depicts two stylized dolphins with their bodies symmetrically curved and swirling outward on either side of a large scallop shell. The dolphins have intricate detailing and fins that flair outward. The entire piece is gilded, presenting a rich, golden color. Its size and design detail allow it to stand out when viewed directly, appearing as a decorative ornament that might be seen on a piece of furniture or architectural element. The dolphins and shell together create a classical aesthetic.
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The sculpture depicts two stylized dolphins with their bodies symmetrically curved and swirling outward on either side of a large scallop shell. The dolphins have intricate detailing and fins that flair outward. The entire piece is gilded, presenting a rich, golden color. Its size and design detail allow it to stand out when viewed directly, appearing as a decorative ornament that might be seen on a piece of furniture or architectural element. The dolphins and shell together create a classical aesthetic.

National Gallery of Art · Sculpture

Appliqué in the Form of Paired Dolphins on a Scallop Shell

Italian 16th Century

Date
16th century
Medium
gilded bronze//gilding rubbed above eyes and on upper part of shell
Dimensions
overall: 13 x 27.3 cm (5 1/8 x 10 3/4 in.)
Classification
Sculpture · Applique
Accession number
1957.14.123
Credit line
Samuel H. Kress Collection
Time span
1401 to 1500
Department
CSD
Original NGA record Wikidata

Subjects and terms

  • Italian
  • mammal
  • animal
  • Renaissance
  • European Small Bronzes before 1900
  • Dolphin
Provenance

Santa Maria Novella, Florence.[1] Eugène de Miller Aichholz, Vienna; (his sale, Galeries Georges Petit, Paris, 18-22 May 1900, no. 34 [pair with NGA 1957.14.124]); Gustave Dreyfus [1837-1914], Paris; his estate; purchased 1930 by (Duveen Brothers, Inc., London and New York); purchased 1945 by the Samuel H. Kress Foundation, New York; gift 1957 to NGA. [1] According to the 1900 sale catalogue of the Eugène de Miller Aiccholz collection.

NGA object ID 43843. Collection metadata is reproduced under CC0. This work is included because its NGA published-image record is marked open access; visitors should recheck the source record before substantial reuse.