Box - shell - Alabaster, Brass - wallet-draining jewelry box






Master marquetry craftswoman with 4 years' expert experience. Trainee auctioneer at Sotheby's Paris.
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Mid‑century Italian carved box in white alabaster with brass hinge, model conchiglia, 10 cm high, 15 cm wide and 15 cm deep, weighing about 1.3 kg, dating to 1950–1960, produced in Volterra for use as a jewellery box or catchall with a shell‑like relief lid.
Description from the seller
Splendid and elegant antique jewelry box or catchall from the mid-20th century (Mid-Century Modern style), representing a refined testament to the great Italian artisanal tradition typical of Volterra’s renowned manufactories. The case is entirely carved from precious white alabaster, distinguished by an exceptional and evocative natural translucence, enhanced by gray and amber veining that makes each piece unique and unrepeatable.
The design features a circular, domed body, completed by a cleverly relief-sculpted lid that evokes the curving profiles of a seashell. The two stone elements are joined by a sober, solid hinge mount in gilded brass, which finishes the edges with a delicate touch of metallic contrast. Perfect as a decorative element on a vanity, a dresser, or an entryway console, this object combines the functionality of an exceptional container with the sculptural beauty of natural stone.
The item is presented in overall good vintage condition. The stone retains its extraordinary ability to transmit light and its vintage luster. Only light and normal signs of aging on the brass mount and minimal traces of use on the alabaster surface are noted, which confirm its authenticity and historical charm.
Seller's Story
Splendid and elegant antique jewelry box or catchall from the mid-20th century (Mid-Century Modern style), representing a refined testament to the great Italian artisanal tradition typical of Volterra’s renowned manufactories. The case is entirely carved from precious white alabaster, distinguished by an exceptional and evocative natural translucence, enhanced by gray and amber veining that makes each piece unique and unrepeatable.
The design features a circular, domed body, completed by a cleverly relief-sculpted lid that evokes the curving profiles of a seashell. The two stone elements are joined by a sober, solid hinge mount in gilded brass, which finishes the edges with a delicate touch of metallic contrast. Perfect as a decorative element on a vanity, a dresser, or an entryway console, this object combines the functionality of an exceptional container with the sculptural beauty of natural stone.
The item is presented in overall good vintage condition. The stone retains its extraordinary ability to transmit light and its vintage luster. Only light and normal signs of aging on the brass mount and minimal traces of use on the alabaster surface are noted, which confirm its authenticity and historical charm.
