A ‘Porphyry’ Scagliola Column

Stately of poise and in crisp condition, this column dates from the early 19th century and reflects an enduring enthusiasm for the Classical form. Scagliola is a form of artificial marble developed in the 16th century, and the present example is in imitation of Imperial Porphyry, highly prized by Byzantine, Egyptian, and Roman cultures (see the octagonal font in the Lateran Baptistery, Rome, constructed using porphyry columns).

Height: 100cm, 35 1/2″
Diameter of top: 35cm, 13 1/4″
Diameter of bottom: 45cm, 17 3/4″