{"title":"Swedish Porphyry","description":"\u003cp\u003eSwedish Porphyry, or Porfyr as it's locally known, is a remarkable ornamental stone with a vivid history and enduring allure. Unlike many other porphyries, Swedish Porphyry was not known in antiquity and made its first appearance in the decorative arts and architecture scene relatively recently, in the 18th century.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe stone, characterised by its robust nature and uniquely coloured inclusions, is sourced from the historic Älvdalen quarries of Dalarna, Sweden. The material’s primary colour can range from red to black, punctuated by crystals that lend an elegant visual texture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eSwedish Porphyry's rise to popularity coincided with the era of the Grand Tour in the 18th and 19th centuries. Although it wasn't a relic of the Ancient Roman culture that Grand Tour travelers sought, its distinctive beauty and exclusivity made it a desirable material for the European elite, contributing to its integration into the decorative arts of the period.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhile the Grand Tourists were familiarising themselves with Swedish Porphyry, Faustino Corsi, an Italian lawyer and scholar with an avid interest in decorative stones, was amassing his notable collection. Corsi's catalogue includes several varieties of porphyry, and it does specifically include Swedish Porphyry reference number 795. His dedication to understanding and documenting these rare materials greatly advanced academic interest in ornamental stones.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"a-rare-large-scale-swedish-porphyry-vase-as-a-lamp","title":"A Rare Large-Scale Swedish Porphyry Vase","description":"\u003cp\u003eSweden, circa 1820\u003cbr\u003ePorphyry\u003cbr\u003eHeight: 38 cm (15 inches)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA striking early 19th-century Swedish porphyry vase, generously scaled and beautifully proportioned, with a broad everted rim, gently waisted body and stepped circular foot.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe simplicity of the form allows the natural character of the porphyry to take centre stage. Prized for its rich colour, distinctive markings and exceptional hardness, Swedish porphyry was an expensive and prestigious material, particularly associated with the refined neoclassical interiors of the Gustavian period.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLarge examples of this quality are increasingly difficult to find. With its restrained silhouette and impressive presence, this vase works equally well in traditional and contemporary interiors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExcellent patina, with minor wear consistent with its age.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Collection TH30","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51120125378897,"sku":"21168","price":5500.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0935\/5873\/5185\/files\/porphyry_vase_lamp_base.png?v=1788183456"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0935\/5873\/5185\/collections\/IMG_4994-1536x1536.jpg?v=1757798145","url":"https:\/\/nwtiques.com\/collections\/swedish-porphyry.oembed","provider":"Nicholas Wells Antiques","version":"1.0","type":"link"}