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Rare Vintage I. Magnin & Co. Italian Alabaster Apothecary Jar – 8" Hand-Carved Translucent White Quartz-Like Melon Urn.
Up for consideration is a breathtaking, remarkably rare piece of Mid-Century luxury decor: a hand-carved, genuine white alabaster apothecary jar imported from Italy exclusively for the legendary high-end department store, I. Magnin & Co.Known for catering to the most discerning clientele of San Francisco, Beverly Hills, and Seattle, I. Magnin curated only the finest global artistry. This exquisite vessel is a prime example of their unmatched eye for luxury.The Artistry & Design:Crafted by master Italian stonemasons, this statement piece features a striking, multi-tiered "gourd" or "melon" body. The entire exterior is sculpted with uniform vertical fluting, giving it a scalloped texture that plays beautifully with light. The lid seamlessly carries this ribbed rhythm to the top, where it is crowned by a magnificent, multi-layered lotus bud finial—a sophisticated architectural detail that instantly elevates it from a mere canister to a work of sculptural art.
The Material (Quartz-Like Translucency):Carved from a premium selection of pure white Italian alabaster, the stone possesses an ethereal, semi-translucent quality closely resembling fine white quartz. When kissed by natural sunlight or ambient room lighting, the jar appears to emit a soft, inner glow. True to authentic, hand-mined stone, it showcases natural, cloud-like inclusions and subtle crystalline veins embedded deep within its smooth, satin-finished walls.
Condition & Specifications:Provenance: Authentic vintage import for luxury retailer I. Magnin & Co.Origin: Expertly hand-carved in Italy.
Material: Solid, premium white translucent alabaster stone.Dimensions: Approximately 8” Tall.
Condition: Great vintage condition with natural mineral variations inherent to genuine alabaster. (Note: Please review the photos to appreciate the unique stone character, including a beautifully complex natural inclusion line near the rim of the lid).
Collector's Note:Finding mid-century Italian alabaster of this scale, pristine white coloration, and tiered complexity is difficult enough—finding one backed by the historical luxury of the I. Magnin & Co. label is an absolute rarity. Perfect as a standalone centerpiece on a vanity, a sophisticated addition to a curio cabinet, or a functional Hollywood Regency accent.
Provenance: Authentic vintage import for luxury retailer I. Magnin & Co. Features the highly sought-after original foil retailer label intact on the base.
