Centerpiece. Max Strobl, Munich, ca. 1905.

MAX STROBL (Germany, 1861-1946)
Centerpiece. Munich, ca. 1905
Partially gilded silver; malachite, amazonite and amethyst cabochons.
Punched.
Total weight: 2960 gr.
Measurements: 53 x 43 cm.

Sumptuous silver centerpiece, created by the goldsmith Max Strobl in Munich around 1905. The piece is an exceptional example of the Jugendstil style (the German variant of Art Nouveau), characterized by its organic forms, detailed craftsmanship and combined use of various materials.

The centerpiece has a shape reminiscent of a chalice or ceremonial cup. It sits on a wide base and rises through a slender stem to culminate in an oval receptacle and a figural finial. The base is hexagonal and very elaborate. The feet are in the form of mythological lions. The top of the base forms a wide, shallow dish, the interior of which is over-gilded, creating a rich contrast with the color of the silver. The rim of the dish is adorned with semi-precious stones set in stone. The outside of the base is embossed with bulbous and rounded shapes. From the center of the base rises a fluted stem that then takes on an elegant twisted form. The cup has an oval or cocoon shape, also decorated with an embossing of prominent lobes that give it volume and dynamism.

The piece is crowned by an ornamental finial that includes a deep green malachite stone and, at the top, a small and detailed figure of St. George on horseback fighting the dragon, a classic iconographic motif that is here reinterpreted with the delicacy of the style of the period.

The silver is masterfully worked with embossing, chiseling and casting techniques. Partial gilding is used to highlight the interior of the base. The piece is enriched with inlaid gemstones such as malachite, amazonite and amethyst, which add points of color and luxury.

Max Strobl worked from 1891 onwards in his goldsmith's workshop, acquired from Sanktjohannser, in Munich's Dienerstraße, where he mainly manufactured religious objects. In addition, he also specialized in jewelry, goblets and centerpieces. Stylistically, he liked to combine modern elements with Merovingian or early medieval designs, as can be seen in this centerpiece offered here.