“bacchus” Plate. Neo-renaissance, In The Style Of Johann Michael Maucher (1645–1701), Germany.

A superb decorative dish in the Neo-Renaissance style, crafted from carved ivory inlaid on a wooden base, created in the style of the works of the great German master Johann Michael Maucher (1645–1701). The composition forms a complex and skillfully crafted ensemble, featuring a rich mythological program inspired by themes from Antiquity—characteristic of Renaissance decorative arts and reinterpreted in the 19th century.

The central medallion depicts Dionysus (Bacchus) drinking from a cup, surrounded by his companions and a goat—a traditional attribute of the cult of wine—against a backdrop of a forest landscape and grapevines. Surrounding this central scene are eight oval cartouches forming a continuous narrative cycle: the contest between Marsyas and Apollo judged by King Midas; Zeus’s seduction of Callisto; Diana’s denunciation and punishment of Callisto; Callisto’s rescue and her transformation into the constellation of the Big Dipper; Pluto’s abduction of Proserpine; a satyr’s advances toward a nymph; Actaeon’s punishment for spying on Diana; the abduction of the nymph Io by Zeus, disguised as a cloud.

The sculpture is distinguished by a high level of artistic refinement. The delicacy of the modeling, the supple drapery, and the richness of the secondary details lend the work depth and rhythmic harmony. The brass bands serve both a structural and decorative purpose. The reverse side is made of dark-stained wood, revealing meticulous craftsmanship.

Materials: Carved ivory, wood, brass, antler.
Dimensions: Diameter 46.5 cm.
Weight: 2,700 g.
Condition: Good. Slight signs of wear consistent with the piece’s age. No notable restoration or alterations.
Provenance: Probably Germany, 19th century.

ID-ANTQ-8393