C19th Italian ‘Grand Tour’ Souvenir Cartouche-shaped Marble Paperweight with Micro-mosaic Central Panel .

Late C19th Italian ‘Grand Tour’ souvenir cartouche-shaped marble paperweight with micro-mosaic central panel.

Finely executed micro-mosaic decorated paperweight with an oval central panel depicting the ancient Roman Forum in Rome , later known as the ‘Campo Vacino’ or Field of cows , as the ruined public space in central Rome was used for grazing. .

The cartouche shaped black marble body with a band of marmo Rosso red marble surrounding the central scenic panel . .

The micro-mosaic panel showing the ancient column ruins of the Temple of Vespasian to the centre and flanked by the Arch of Constantine and the ruined remains of The Temple of Jupiter. The scene displaying a skilfully-worked perspective with good depth , showing further ruins beyond the foreground including the Column of Phocas .

A fine quality paperweight of the type produced to satisfy the demands of rich tourists for souvenirs when completing the ‘Grand Tour’ of the classical sites and sights of Italy and Europe.

In excellent original condition with no damage or repairs. Very minor chips to edges of the black marble body commensurate with age and use .

H 5”

W 7.5”

D 1”

Italy , Rome c.1870

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 . Our inventory on the website Selling Antiques .co.uk showcases our range of stock, whilst more items are available to view on our website. Please visit us on:

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.