Display frame - sulfur





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Five sulfur impressions dating to 1800–1850, mounted inside an Empire‑style gilded wooden display case with a blue velvet background, external 25 × 30 cm and internal 24 × 19 cm, in used condition with probable small losses.
Description from the seller
Collection of five sulfur impressions finely worked, mounted inside a display case in Empire style framing.
Object Details:
Content: The display case contains five sulfur casts, each depicting a different scene or classical mythological figure carved in relief. These impressions, typical of the XVIIIth–XIXth century Grand Tour, were used as cultured souvenirs and portable catalogues of famous ancient and modern gems.
Presentation: The impressions are arranged symmetrically on a background of deep blue velvet, which enhances their ivory color and the definition of the details.
Supports: Each impression is mounted on a circular support made of cardboard or parchment, edged with a thin gilded strip.
Numbering: Along some side edges of the supports, small handwritten numbers in dark ink are visible (e.g., "106", "109", "33"), likely referring to an archival catalogue or a larger collection.
Subjects (based on observation): The scenes depict human and divine figures in classical poses, including profiles, standing figures, and complex multi-figure compositions.
Frame: The frame enclosing the display case is carved wood, gilt with gold leaf, decorated with palmette and foliage motifs typical of Empire or Restoration style. It bears signs of age and an authentic patina.
Dimensions: 25 x 30 cm (external to the frame).
Condition:
The sulfur impressions appear intact and well-preserved behind glass. The background velvet retains its vivid color. The gilded frame shows slight wear, small losses in the gilding, and imperfections consistent with age and authenticity of the object, which do not compromise its overall aesthetics but witness its history. Please view the detailed photographs carefully, which are an integral part of the description.
A collectors’ opportunity:
This display case represents a piece of European collecting history and neoclassical taste. Ideal for enriching a Wunderkammer, a study, or a collection of glyptiques and ancient art objects.
Collection of five sulfur impressions finely worked, mounted inside a display case in Empire style framing.
Object Details:
Content: The display case contains five sulfur casts, each depicting a different scene or classical mythological figure carved in relief. These impressions, typical of the XVIIIth–XIXth century Grand Tour, were used as cultured souvenirs and portable catalogues of famous ancient and modern gems.
Presentation: The impressions are arranged symmetrically on a background of deep blue velvet, which enhances their ivory color and the definition of the details.
Supports: Each impression is mounted on a circular support made of cardboard or parchment, edged with a thin gilded strip.
Numbering: Along some side edges of the supports, small handwritten numbers in dark ink are visible (e.g., "106", "109", "33"), likely referring to an archival catalogue or a larger collection.
Subjects (based on observation): The scenes depict human and divine figures in classical poses, including profiles, standing figures, and complex multi-figure compositions.
Frame: The frame enclosing the display case is carved wood, gilt with gold leaf, decorated with palmette and foliage motifs typical of Empire or Restoration style. It bears signs of age and an authentic patina.
Dimensions: 25 x 30 cm (external to the frame).
Condition:
The sulfur impressions appear intact and well-preserved behind glass. The background velvet retains its vivid color. The gilded frame shows slight wear, small losses in the gilding, and imperfections consistent with age and authenticity of the object, which do not compromise its overall aesthetics but witness its history. Please view the detailed photographs carefully, which are an integral part of the description.
A collectors’ opportunity:
This display case represents a piece of European collecting history and neoclassical taste. Ideal for enriching a Wunderkammer, a study, or a collection of glyptiques and ancient art objects.

