Late 19th Venetian-Style Carved Calling Card

Updated September 19, 2026

Lot number140
Estimate200.00 - 400.00 USD
AuctionSEPTEMBER AUCTION
DateSeptember 26, 2026 at 12:00 PM EDT
Auction houseBig Shanty Auction
LocationMarietta, Georgia

Striking late 19th century Venetian-style figural calling card receiver, carved and finished in black with a standing attendant supporting a broad scalloped tray suspended from metal rings at the hands. The figure is modeled with hoop earrings, expressive painted facial details, elongated limbs, and period costume, while the tray is decorated with delicate gilt and pale floral branches against a dark ground. These decorative figural card receivers were intended for use in an entry hall or parlor to receive visitors’ calling cards and are associated with the highly ornamental Venetian and Moorish-inspired decorative arts of the period. Raised on a stepped rectangular base with beaded border detail. The piece shows scattered scuffs, scratches, rubbing, finish wear, and small areas of loss consistent with age and use, with additional wear visible to the tray, figure, and base. Measures approx. 9.25" H x 5.75" W x 5.75" D.

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