Description
A Victorian cast copper tazza, Art Union of London, possibly an electro type by Elkington, the dished top having a border of relief of Renaissance revival foliate and putti, Arts union were subscription lotteries that awarded Art as prizes. An Annual Ballot was held in which members’ tickets were drawn from a drum and the prizes allotted accordingly. Depending on the rules of the Union prize winners were either awarded a specific work or could select from an exhibition. Many unions held an annual exhibition of prize winner’s prizes which was open to subscribers and members of the public. As the Unions became increasingly more popular they commissioned pieces in limited editions also. The Art Union of London was founded in 1836 and wound up in 1912.
Antique Art Union of London Copper Tazza Putti amongst scrolling foliage.
