Antique german  Neoclassical Cast Bronze  Tazza, after K. F. Schinkel with Four Pierced Greek Deities

 1870s Neoclassical Bronze Tazza, Card Holder

A very detailed neoclassical gilt bronze tazza wrought circa 1870 after a design by K.F Schinkel. The cut work top is a frieze of four panels with Neptune (Poseidon) and three other denizens of the deep-gods and nymphs/goddesses riding sea creatures. The center diamond and the border is a tapestry of cut-out flowers and swirls; a big mythical bird figure in relief sits on the four points of the center diamond. 

This elegant tazza would have been used for fancy confections or even as a calling card holder. It measures 8 1/4" diameter 

Very good condition, some signs of wear