ITALIAN 1820 Grand Tour Inkwell In Marble Carved Lava & Vesuvius Gouache
An unusual antique gran-tour inkstand with Vesuvius gouache.
This a very rare circular inkstand created in Italy, back in the 1820's. This inkwell was masterfully carved in Naples in serpentine marble and decorated with seven oval cameos carved from volcanic lava. The cameos are mount in gilt bronze frames and depicts different portraits in high relief of Italian and Roman personages including the figure of Dante, prominently in the center. In the reverse of the lid there is a round frame which are holding a gouache painting showing a night view of the Mount Vesuvius eruption over the bay of Naples with sailing ships and a well-dressed couple. It is fitted at the interior base with several removable round cups and penholders made up in gilt bronze. The different lava rock cameos having obtained their individual colors from the oxidization and crystallized nature of the various cooled minerals from the volcanic eruption and lava flow. This type of ink-stand was produced in the Naples area of Italy during the mid C19th as souvenirs for tourists visiting the historic sites and sights of the European 'Grand Tour'. This is an exceptional antique piece and very unusual.
Gran Tour
Between the 1820 and 1890, ancient cities were discovered, such as Troy, Pompeii and Alexandria. Archaeological excavations in Egypt, Greece and Rome, discovered artistic pieces of these ancient cultures. These fabulous discoveries, stimulated cultural trips to these countries, popularly called "grand tour". Being the case that the enthusiast visitors bring back small objects, like souvenirs to be assembled into jewelry. The starting point of these trips were in the cities of Rome and Venice. this is why the craftsmen of these cities created small and interesting objects with ancient characteristics like this piece.
Country: Europe, Naples, Italy.
Period: Neo Classic, Italian renaissance revival, grand-tour, early 19th century
Materials: Carved serpentine marble, carve lava cameos, gilded bronze, a gouache painting and a round crystal.
Weight: 999.5 Grams, (0.999 Kg).
Measurements: Height 70 mm by Diameter 119 mm (2.75 x 4.68 Inches).
Literature: For a similar example see Christies Sale 7889 /Lot 272 9/12/2010 £3,375. -
Condition: The overall condition of this Grand-Tour inkwell is very good. Beside the little normal wear there is some old cracks and repairs than don’t detract the beauty and rarity. In nice original condition, with one historic repair under the lid. All parts are secured in their settings. This piece was carefully inspected to guarantee the condition & authenticity.
INVENTORY REF: P030326AMNN/.7788