Rare collectible eighteenth century Neapolitan PRESEPE

    This small elliptical rock populated with model figures, whose colours are protected by a layer of egg tempera, could lead one to imagine that it is a model for a second much bigger composition, but the extreme perfection of form and the absence of the Tavern - an essential component of presepe - indicate its purpose was to be an object of veneration.

    The high quality of the decoration is revealed in the gilded stones of the ruined temple and its pilasters painted as lapis lazuli, while the backdrop is enriched by numerous mother of pearl shells and many coral branches. All this underlines the symbolic propitiatory value of this presepe which, in all probability, was made to mark the birth of a first son at Christmas time, as had been the long-standing tradition.

   The ruins in which the Nativity is set indicate the persistence of neo-classical taste, while the open walls, on all four sides, are redolent of those presepe that offer the viewer more scenes.
The bold and singular composition of the putti in the heavens surrounding the dove of the Holy Spirit has no equal - a unique example of complexity in miniature work, the circling movement of flight indicates the work of a master sculptor.