Possibly inspired by a 1771 painting by Jacques-Louis David, this set of large gilded copper chargers depict the Roman deities, Mars and Minerva. The painting by David (Minerva Fighting Mars) is currently on display at the Louvre and was awarded second place for the Prix de Rome, which was a French scholarship that allowed artists to study in Rome for up to five years.

Both chargers depict a bust of the gods clad in a cuirass and helmet, indicating that they are dressed for war. The images have been hammered from the verso side in a metalworking technique known as repousse, giving the front a slightly raised appearance. Each god’s name can be seen beneath their shoulder, with the alternate spelling of “Minerve” on her charger. A twisted rope motif encircles the profile medallions and the outer rim is crenellated. In between the two rings is a rinceaux dotted with shaped escutcheons, fluted urns, and volute dolphins. Our pair of Neoclassical gilded copper repousse chargers from the 1800s are quite large, with a diameter approaching nearly 2 feet.  They would make fantastic wall ornaments in a hallway, study, or game room.

CONDITION: Good antique condition, with general wear as seen in photos. Professional restoration to remove small age separations. Rigged in the back for hanging.