Repoussé Vermeil Box Inspired by Sandro Botticelli’s Renaissance Masterpiece “Primavera”

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On offer is a miniature gilded box made as an exquisite souvenir of Florence. It depicts a high-relief rendition of … Read more On offer is a miniature gilded box made as an exquisite souvenir of Florence. It depicts a high-relief rendition of one of the world's most famous artworks housed in that city’s Uffizi Gallery. The relief on the lid is a reproduction of Sandro Botticelli's celebrated Renaissance masterpiece, “Primavera” (circa 1480). The interior and exterior were given a vermeil finish—a thin wash of gold plating over the silver base—yielding its rich, warm glow.

SCENE: With enough characters for a miniseries, the lid of this tiny box is directly inspired by the painting. From left to right, it clearly depicts: Mercury dispelling winter’s clouds with his staff; the Three Graces, clad in translucent veils, dancing in a tight circle, while representing beauty, charm and joy; Venus, standing front and center beneath a hovering Cupid, this goddess of love and beauty reigns over her springtime garden; Flora, the goddess of Spring, steps forward reborn and radiant in a magnificent floral gown, scattering flower petals onto the lawn; and the nymph Chloris attempts to flee Zephyrus, the blue-skinned god of the West Wind, who sweeps in aggressively from the right, capturing her. As Chloris is touched, a stream of flowers pours from her lips, transforming her into Flora bringing Spring in the process.

ORIGIN: The box reflects the Renaissance Revival style, which became immensely popular during the late 19th and early 20th centuries as artisans looked back to Italy's golden age of art. It was almost certainly produced in Florence, the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance. Florence had a massive industry dedicated to creating high-quality silver and gilt souvenirs for wealthy travelers.

Surprise someone special with a trip to Florence by presenting the perfect souvenir in advance.

Signature/Maker’s Mark: Nonexistent. See less