137

Box in ebony and red marble, Italy, early 17th - late 18th centuries

Height x width x depth: 294 x 42 x 23 cm.
with ebony (Diospyros spp.) veneered wood structure, with decorative inserts in Florentine marquetry (Diospyros spp), mounted within brass frames.
The plaques, arranged throughout the body of the piece, depict birds rendered with extraordinary naturalistic precision through the combination of polychrome marbles and semi-precious stones, typical of Florentine grand ducal craftsmanship. The shape is that of a small temple, with architectural proportions emphasised by the brass frames and completed at the top by a handle that facilitates transport.
The English “secure level” lock bears witness to an influence or integration of British manufacturing elements, grafted onto a decorative and constructional system of clear Florentine origin.
Due to its stylistic and technical characteristics, the casket can be traced back to Florentine production in the second half of the 17th century, a period when the workshops of the Opificio delle Pietre Dure produced refined hardstone inlays on commission from aristocrats and international clients.
The inclusion of an advanced English lock suggests a foreign client or an adaptation during the 18th century, when these locking systems were particularly popular.
This lot is accompanied by an expertise issued by Ce.S.Ar Centro studi archeometici.
Provenance:
Count Luigi Rigi Luperti Rizzo collection.
13/11/2025 12:08:43
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€ 6.000,00 / 8.000,00
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4.000,00 €
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Live auction 361

ANCIENT FURNITURE AND WORKS OF ART FROM 16th TO 20th CENTURY Including selected furnishings from the Count Luigi Rigi Luperti Collection

Palazzo Caetani Lovatelli, thu 11 December 2025
SINGLE SESSION 11/12/2025 Hours 15:00
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