Important Early 18th Century Italian Baroque Reliquary Casket
 
This large casket is one of only a few of it’s kind to survive in such a fine state of preservation.  It is datable to the end of the 17th Century, Louis XIV period.  The wooden, hand carved casket has a gilt and polychrome surface, a gilded crown on top, cherub heads mounted to the front and is raised on flat ball feet. Each corner is decorated with carved and gilded pinecones. It has a glass fitted facade and the original fine fabric lining to the interior.
 
A variety of such caskets were used in wealthy homes to display jewelry, seals and reliquary treasures.  The casket is well preserved.  There is light chipping to the gesso.  Some slight rubbing to the gilding.  Two small corner moldings are missing.  Hardware on the back flap is probably replaced. Wear is commensurate with age and use.
 
Measurements: L 25.50” x H 22.50” x 12.50
 
Weight: 16 lbs.