A GRAND TOUR BRONZE MODEL OF THE ALBANI VASE AFTER THE ANTQUE

Late 19th / Early 20th Century
With front facing Bacchaic heads, lion pelt and vine leaves, entwined handles, on a black slate plinth, 16cm high

The original marble was ‘discovered’ at Hadrian’s villa, Tivoli, by Gavin Hamilton. It was later restored by James Byre and Piranesi, with additions and improvements made. After the British Museum declined to purchase the vase, it was given to the 2nd Earl of Warwick, George Grenville, who displayed it in a greenhouse.