Bronze and gilded copper box, Central Europe, 16th century. Supported on the ground by four gilded bronze spherical feet, this splendid box features a structure with linear frames, to which five highly refined historiated panels in gilded copper are attached using delightful small hammered metal nails.
These panels, finely worked in relief and chased, are very rich in detail, revealing a high quality of craftsmanship. The theme depicted is the life of Jesus.
Left Side Panel:
The first in chronological order.
Represented is the Annunciation.
The scene unfolds under a portico, where Mary is seated reading a book.
She is surprised by the Archangel Gabriel who, standing and holding the classic lily in his right hand, announces the joyous event to the Virgin.
Particular attention is drawn to the balance of the composition and the elegance of the drapery in the garments of the two figures. Also noteworthy is the quality of execution of the archangel's wings, the vase placed between them, and the floor, which manages to convey a clear sense of perspective on such a small surface.
Front Panel:
Represented is the Adoration of the Shepherds.
The scene takes place at the boundary between a cave/temple, depicted with various architectural elements, and the exterior, shown as a soft grassy expanse dotted with stones, a stream, and trees.
Jesus is gently cradled by Mary in the manger, watched over by two Angels, illuminated by a candle held by St. Joseph, and warmed by the ox and the donkey.
Here, he receives the adoration of the shepherds, who, in their traditional attire and accompanied by their ever-present dog, come to visit the newborn.
Rear Panel:
The Adoration of the Magi.
In this case as well, the scene is set in an environment that is a blend of interior and exterior.
The Holy Family is depicted on the right side of the composition.
Joseph stands leaning on a staff behind Mary, who is seated and holds the Child Jesus in her arms.
The three Magi, dressed in sumptuous robes, offer Jesus the traditional gifts: gold, silver, and myrrh.
The Child is depicted as very alert, interacting directly with the Magi nearest to him, touching with his hand the gift contained in an elegant vase being presented to him.
This panel, too, is highly pleasing, balanced, and rich in detail.
Right Side Panel:
The Circumcision.
Eight days after his birth, Jesus was circumcised according to the Jewish practice of Milah.
The scene unfolds inside a building, perhaps the Temple of Jerusalem or Joseph's home.
In the light of a torch held by a man standing on the right, the high priest, seated on an elegant chair decorated with a mask, performs the circumcision on Jesus.
The Child is held by Joseph, and a woman, likely Mary, is visible behind him.
A fifth man stands in the background.
The focal point of the representation is slightly off-center to the left of the panel.
This is where most of the figures are gathered, and in the foreground, the exact moment is depicted when the high priest, using a small knife, carries out the operation.
Top Panel:
The Crucifixion.
Considered by Christians to be the culminating event through which Christ, by his sacrifice, brought about the salvation of humanity from sin.
Jesus' crucifixion took place on Mount Golgotha.
In the background of the panel, the city of Jerusalem is visible. In the center, in the foreground, is Christ crucified, with on his left side, the sorrowful figures of Mary and the "beloved apostle" who, in anguish, pray looking towards Jesus.
On the opposite side, two soldiers, one on foot armed with a shield and spear, and the other mounted on an elegant steed, watch over the somber scene.
This panel is also rich in details: the precision with which the figures and architecture are rendered, the sky with its small sun and the large swirl of clouds about to cover it, the ground covered with grass, stones, and trees.
Everything is executed with skill and great attention to detail, lending the casket significant added value which, combined with its elegant architectural design and balanced proportions, makes it a truly pleasing and refined work.
The piece, like all our other items, will be sold with a certificate of authenticity.
We personally handle and organize the packaging and shipping of artworks with worldwide insurance.
The object is provided with a free movement permit, issued by the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, which certifies its age and value, and allows for its export.
