Description

Fine early C19th Italian �Grand Tour� souvenir carved giallo antico marble reduction of the sarcophagus of Lucius Cornelius Scipio Barbatus.
High quality carved marble model of the inscribed sarcophagus tomb of Lucius Cornelius Scipio Barbatus ( c.337 BC-270 BC) , Roman consul in 298 B.C .and celebrated conqueror of the Etruscans at the Battle of Volterra . Here modelled as an inkstand , the original once located in the Tomb of the Scipios , the patrician Scipio family of the Roman republic , was discovered in 1780 on the Appian Way , is now exhibited in the Vatican Museums , Rome , Italy .
The name is incised on the front edge of the lid and the epitaph is on the front of the sarcophagus , clearly and precisely written in Old Latin Saturnian verse. The blackened lettering being skilfully incised and legible .A Doric-style decorative entablature panel is above the inscription featuring crisply carved roses alternating with architectural triglyphs and guttae . The top of the sarcophagus with carved palm-scroll detail ends .
The well-chosen high-grade prized giallo antico marble having striking colour and figuring . �Marmo giallo antico� was one of the most favoured marbles of the Roman Empire and was mined at Chemou , Tunisia , ancient Numidia . Mounted on a contrasting slab block of black marble .
The lift-off lid revealing a recessed compartment , divided as a pen tray flanked by two ink-wells .
In excellent original condition , with only minor historic frits or chips to the edges .
A fine quality example in exceptionally well-preserved condition , having been produced in the first quarter of the C19th in Rome as an expensive souvenir for wealthy tourists completing the �Grand Tour� of the classical sites and sights of Italy and Europe .
H 5.5�
D 2.5�
W 8�
Italy , Rome c.1820
Established in the Cathedral City of Worcester for over 40 years ,M.Lees&Sons , run by Michael Lees ,have been dealing with public and trade from show-rooms in an early Georgian town-house. We aim to provide a straight-forward approach to our business and build lasting relationships with our customers. As members of the 'London and Provincial Antique Dealers Association' , we provide full descriptive details , date ,authenticity and any available provenance ,with full disclosure of any restoration or repair which may have taken place .
Whether buying for pleasure , decoration or investment, we welcome you to our web-site or premises .
Past projects have included advising clients on forming and disposing of collections , furnishing period properties , hotel and commercial projects , also a shoot-room and lodge .
All goods are available to view and owned by M.Lees&Sons .
If visiting, a telephone call prior is advisable as due to the demands of the business the show-room does not have regular hours . Please feel free to contact us if we can be of assistance .
www.leesantiquesworcester.com.
Tel. 01905 26620 / 07860826218
Located in the centre of Worcester in the shadow of the Cathedral with easy parking nearby. Exit Junction 7 M5 and follow the signs for Worcester Porcelain Museum . Our premises are located 100 metres from the Museum and 50 metres from Pay&Display car-park in nearby King St.
Internal Ref: ML 243