RARE SILVER EROTIC MUSICAL BOX ITALY, 1930s

An elegant silver musical box with an automatic mechanism, combining the functions of a cigarette case and a mechanical miniature scene. The rectangular case is crafted in 800 standard silver, featuring fine guilloché decoration and an ornamental border along the edges of the lid and body. The upper section opens to form a gilded cigarette tray, beneath which the musical mechanism is concealed. The interior is richly gilded and decorated with a relief composition depicting a pastoral landscape with architectural motifs and decorative elements inspired by Neorococo aesthetics. At the centre is a movable figurative scene showing a couple dressed in 18th century costumes, executed in polychrome metal against a dark contrasting ground. When the mechanism is wound, the scene animates to musical accompaniment, creating the effect of a theatrical miniature and emphasising the playful, gallant character of the object. The high artistic quality, mechanical complexity and the rarity of erotic subject matter in silver musical boxes make this piece an exceptional example of decorative and applied arts of the first half of the 20th century. A probable attribution points to the Italian silversmithing tradition of Sicily, with a possible connection to the circle of Palermo workshops specialising in refined interior accessories and objects of private use. Hallmarks: Italian assay mark “800”. Maker’s mark not identified, possibly lost or concealed beneath structural elements. Dimensions: Height: 3.2 cm Width: 9.2 cm Length: 5.7 cm Material: 800 standard silver, gilding, mechanical musical movement, mixed metal elements. Condition: Good. Overall well preserved considering age. Minor signs of wear and superficial scratches. Gilding to the interior preserved. Mechanism in working order. Provenance: Private collection.

Estimate:£3,346.87

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