TEFAF Online 2021

For the 2021 edition of TEFAF Online, Axel Vervoordt is pleased to present an extraordinary fruitwood architectural model of a classical temple. Since this year’s fair will be presented with the overarching theme of “The Art of Collecting”, we can think of not one singular object that better fits the bill than this intricate masterpiece – a “Grand Tour” object that was originally designed and crafted precisely for the purpose of being collected by the culturally inclined.

From the 17^th to the 19^th century, the Grand Tour was an essential rite of passage for young men from the upper class, often regarded as the conclusion to their education. A long voyage to the mainland’s most enchanting destinations in search of the roots of European art and culture, a typical itinerary included cities such as Paris, Geneva, Venice, Rome and Naples. At the same time, news of several exhilarating discoveries, perhaps most notably in Pompeii and Herculaneum, had propelled the enthusiasm for the classical world to unprecedented levels, and these travelers often collected an array of souvenirs to adorn their English homes. Artefacts and architectural fragments, miniature replicas of ancient sculpture, models such as the present example, paintings, drawings, engravings and so forth all served as a symbol and expression of their owner’s sophistication, cultural awareness and appreciation for ancient art and architecture. The act of displaying and discussing these Grand Tour objects among peers was a common part of upper class social gatherings.

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