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RARE SILVER EROTIC MUSICAL BOX  ITALY, 1930s
RARE SILVER EROTIC MUSICAL BOX ITALY, 1930s
An elegant silver musical box with an automatic mechanism, combining the functions of a cigarette case and a mechanical miniature scene. The rectangular case is crafted in 800 standard silver, featuring fine guilloché decoration and an ornamental border along the edges of the lid and body. The upper section opens to form a gilded cigarette tray, beneath which the musical mechanism is concealed.The interior is richly gilded and decorated with a relief composition depicting a pastoral landscape with architectural motifs and decorative elements inspired by Neorococo aesthetics. At the centre is a movable figurative scene showing a couple dressed in 18th century costumes, executed in polychrome metal against a dark contrasting ground. When the mechanism is wound, the scene animates to musical accompaniment, creating the effect of a theatrical miniature and emphasising the playful, gallant character of the object.The high artistic quality, mechanical complexity and the rarity of erotic subject matter in silver musical boxes make this piece an exceptional example of decorative and applied arts of the first half of the 20th century. A probable attribution points to the Italian silversmithing tradition of Sicily, with a possible connection to the circle of Palermo workshops specialising in refined interior accessories and objects of private use.Hallmarks: Italian assay mark “800”. Maker’s mark not identified, possibly lost or concealed beneath structural elements.Dimensions:Height: 3.2 cmWidth: 9.2 cmLength: 5.7 cmMaterial: 800 standard silver, gilding, mechanical musical movement, mixed metal elements.Condition: Good. Overall well preserved considering age. Minor signs of wear and superficial scratches. Gilding to the interior preserved. Mechanism in working order.Provenance: Private collection.
9838 USD
A magnificent icon of the Feasts with an annual menaion and a two-row cycle of Mother of God icons. Russia.19th century.
A magnificent icon of the Feasts with an annual menaion and a two-row cycle of Mother of God icons. Russia.19th century.
Magnificent holidays with a passionate row, an annual menaion and a two-row cycle of icons of the Mother of God - a kind of encyclopedia of the Mother of God images. A majestic monument to Christianity and late Russian icon painting, where in one image the annual and Mother of God universe of Orthodoxy is revealed, full of sacrifice. With the epicenter of suffering and resurrection, the testimony of all the upcoming saints and with hope in the miraculous images of the intercessor. The Virgin Mary series is interrupted by the marks of Unexpected Joy, Joy of All Who Sorrow, the Sign and Coronation of Mary - milestones of the communion and growth of spiritual truths. The Passion Series is composed of: the Ascension of Mary, the Old Testament Trinity, the Entry into Jerusalem, the Raising of Lazarus, the Washing of the Feet, the Last Supper, the Flagellation of Christ, the Imposition of the Crown of Thorns, the Carrying of the Cross, the Crucifixion, the Descent from the Cross and the Entombment. Particularly attractive is the rare completeness of the lists of icons of the Mother of God, which can serve as an encyclopedia of the Mother of God images. The bright decorative painting on a golden background sounds excitingly solemn and life-affirming. Cypress board, gesso, tempera, gilding. Russia. Second half of the 19th century. Dimensions: 53x44 cm.
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