About this sheet
Antique Pompeian Wall Painting and Bronze Design Prints from 1887, Italy-Inspired
This remarkable pair of antique prints showcases the refined elegance and artistic imagination of ancient Pompeian design, as documented in the 19th-century German publication *Der Ornamentenschatz* (The Treasury of Ornament), published in Stuttgart in 1887 by Julius Hoffmann. Compiled by the architect and historian Heinrich Dolmetsch, this influential work catalogued a wide range of decorative styles from classical to Renaissance, with these two plates capturing the opulent spirit of ancient Roman domestic and sculptural art as preserved in Pompeii.
The first plate, titled 'Wandmalerei und bemalte Basreliefs' (Wall Painting and Painted Bas-Reliefs), is a vibrant celebration of fresco painting and architectural ornamentation from Pompeii. At the center, a winged female figure—possibly a personification of Victory or a muse—floats against a golden background, holding a spear and a reflective shield. She is surrounded by rich architectural borders adorned with scrollwork, winged putti, griffins, floral patterns, and decorative panels in classical red, black, turquoise, and gold. This imagery evokes the wall decorations of elite Roman villas, where mythology, nature, and symmetry converged in lush visual harmony.
The second plate, titled 'Broncen' (Bronzes), offers a striking contrast in tone and material, depicting a collection of bronze household objects and sculptures found in Pompeii. These include elaborate candelabra, oil lamps, pedestals, and figural stands rendered in greenish patina tones. Central to the composition is a youthful satyr holding a wineskin, representing the playful and sensuous nature of Roman decorative bronze work. Other items include detailed tripods and furniture elements, all modeled with a flair for expressive form and exquisite craftsmanship.
Together, these prints present a multifaceted view of Pompeian taste and domestic luxury, showcasing the Roman mastery of both color and form. These reproductions were printed using the chromolithographic process, known for its rich color layering and faithful detail, making them as decorative today as they were instructive to 19th-century artists and architects.
Condition:
Both prints are in good antique condition, with strong colors and clear detailing. The paper has aged gracefully with only light toning and minor foxing around the edges, typical for their age. The backs are blank and the margins are intact.
Framing Tips:
To highlight their classical origin and vivid color palette, frame these prints in a set with matching wide mats in ivory or soft grey. A gold or black frame with a subtle antique finish works beautifully to complement both the vividness of the painted panel and the sculptural tone of the bronzes. Ideal for display in a hallway, study, or living space with neoclassical or eclectic styling.
