Cartapesta writing box - Italy 18th century

This charming 18th century Italian writing box is made of cartapesta (papier mâché) and decorated with arte povera. Private object for very intimate use, the arms of its owner are affixed to the lid. The shape of the coat of arms, chamfer or "horse's head" (testa di cavallo) is typically Italian. The party shield, composed of three birds on the one hand and a sun on the other, is surmounted by a marquis' crown, surrounded by two supports, to the dexter and to the sinister, with the figure of lions. All this is included in a frame with rococo ornaments, including a shell, an Atlantean on each side and finally a mascaron. The whole box is decorated with floral motifs, particularly in the form of garlands.

Once opened, the box is divided into four compartments, including one for an inkwell. The inside of the cover is decorated with a very elegant venerable scene. Consisting of three characters, one of whom is on horseback, in a bucolic setting, the nobles are represented hunting, accompanied by a dog.