Fine Early C19th Italian ‘Grand Tour’ Souvenir Carved Giallo Antico Marble Reduction of the Sarcophagus of Lucius Cornelius Scipio Barbatus.

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 .

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