A Würbel & Czokally Silver Model of the Donner Fountain, Vienna, late 19th century. Marks: (3-Diana-A), W&C, SCHWARZ & STE...

Description

A Würbel & Czokally Silver Model of the Donner Fountain, Vienna, late 19th century
Marks: (3-Diana-A), W&C, SCHWARZ & STEINER
9-1/2 x 19-3/4 x 12-1/8 inches (24.1 x 50.2 x 30.8 cm)
4950 grams (159.1486 troy ounces)

The silver centerpiece is modeled after the magnificent Donner Fountain (Donnerbrunnen) in the center of Vienna. The fountain, designed by the renowned Austrian sculptor Georg Raphael Donner (1693-1741), was constructed in the Neuer Markt from 1737 to 1739. In its center stands Providentia, allegory of foresight and provision, on a plinth surrounded by four cherubs holding wriggling, water-spitting fish. The four allegorical figures reclining on the fountain's wall represent the four main tributaries of the Danube (the Rivers Ybbs, Enns, March, and Traun), as well as the four ages and temperaments. This Baroque masterpiece personified the virtue of providing for the city's future inhabitants; perhaps this centerpiece, executed in exceptionally fine and true detail, personifies the same hopes for prosperity towards those who gather round.

The Viennese silversmith Vincenz Czokally founded his own workshop in 1864. His son Anton Czocally inherited the well-respected company in 1890. In 1892, Anton was joined by Carl Würbel, and the company's name was changed to Würbel & Czokally. The company was known for their historicist designs which were favored by Franz Joseph, Emperor of Austria and many members of the Austrian nobility.





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