Bidspirit auction | Coin cabinet, Italy, 17th-18th centuries

Coin cabinet, Italy, 17th-18th centuries - Height x width x diameter: 199 x 162 x 54 cm. with ebony (Diospyros spp.) structure embellished with bone and tortoiseshell (hawksbill sea turtle, Eretmochelys imbricata, Cheloniidae) inlays. The cabinet resembles a small miniature architectural structure, with a rigorous layout reminiscent of the monumentality of a small temple. The upper section is crowned by a triangular ebony tympanum, at the centre of which a carved and gilded plaque depicts an allegorical scene, probably mythological personifications or virtues. On either side of the cabinet are columns of vertical drawers, five on each side, each decorated with a rounded rectangular tortoiseshell insert, framed by ebony fillets and bone profiles. The central part of the cabinet forms the fulcrum of the composition, developed as an architectural façade. Two vertical arches framed by twisted columns contain gilded figurative panels, carved with allegorical or mythological scenes. The central section opens up to reveal an interior organised with additional small columns and an additional allegorical figure, while a “floor” adds depth and a three-dimensional effect. Below the arches are small horizontal drawers, also embellished with tortoiseshell inserts and gilded plaques, designed to hold precious objects, seals or medals. This lot, accompanied by an expertise issued by Ce.S.Ar Centro studi archeometici.