A southern Italian intaglio-inset serpentine marble 'Grand Tour' inkwell

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Toebosch Antiques
Premier Seller
Name
A southern Italian intaglio-inset serpentine marble 'Grand Tour' inkwell
Measurements
Height: 11 cm, Width: 15 cm
Reference
TOEA100697
Techniques
Mixed techniques, Italy, Ink
Colors
Green, Gold, Beige, Brown, White, Black
Categories
Fine Art Sculptures
Materials
Marble marble bronze Brass Glass Limestone Marble
Styles
Grand Tour Grand Tour Renaissance
Periods
19th Century Antique
Origins
Italy
Subject
Portrait
Description

The Grand Tour refers to the 17th -19th century custom of affluent northern European (and later American) ladies and gentlemen to take a trip through France to Italy to learn about classical culture. Visits to Naples and the excavations of Vesuvious were popular. Visitors were encouraged to return home with souvenirs such as this inkwell. 

'Serpentina Moschinata' was named by Roman marble workers who gave this stone the name Serpentina (snake like) because of its resemblance to snake skin, and Moschinata (from moscha meaning fly) due to the presence of small black specs looking like little insects. Also called 'Serpentina Moschinata Verdi' as a result of its distinctive green colour. 

One expert suggests that the oval relief cameos found on such pieces are not made from lava (from Vesuvious), but from local limestone. 

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