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Tutte le aste / Etnografia / Mother-of-pearl from the shells of Turbo marmoratus...


Mosaic of iridescent tesserae from Filipino craftsmanship — This lot features a refined decorative tray, a superb example of craftsmanship from the Philippines. The object is entirely made with the precious mother-of-pearl of the Turbo marmoratus shell, a marine species renowned for its thickness, strength, and exceptional nacre quality. Its design unites the intrinsic beauty of a natural material with a sophisticated and geometric design, making it a piece with notable visual and decorative impact. The surface of the tray is a work of patience and precision, composed of countless rectangular mother-of-pearl tesserae, selected and hand-assembled to create a homogeneous and harmonious mosaic. Looking closely, one appreciates how each individual tessera captures and reflects light in a unique way, generating a continuous shifting sparkle. The color palette ranges from milky white to delicate and changing iridescences in shades of pink, green, and gold, an optical phenomenon known as 'orient'. The shape of the tray, square and slightly concave, enhances its elegance and functionality, framed by a slim metal edge that defines its profile with a contemporary touch. The structure is solid and well balanced, resting on four spherical metal feet that not only guarantee stability but elevate the object, giving it an air of lightness. Also the underside of the tray is clad with the same meticulous mosaic, though it features slightly warmer and more golden tones, testimony to the complete care of the details. The surface polishing is impeccable and enhances its silky shine, inviting touch and maximizing the natural light play of the nacre. Nacre, or mother-of-pearl, is a biomineral composite produced by certain mollusks as the inner layer of the shell. It consists of microscopic layers of aragonite (a calcium carbonate) held together by a protein called conchiolin. This lamellar structure is the cause of its celebrated iridescence, as it splits light similarly to a prism. The nacre of Turbo marmoratus is particularly appreciated in the world of luxury craftsmanship for its robustness and superior luster. This tray transcends its practical function to become a true collectible object. It is an ideal piece to enrich a modern 'cabinet de curiosités', to serve as an elegant centerpiece, or as a high-end catchall in a study or living room. It represents the perfect fusion between the wonder of the natural world and human ingenuity, a tribute to organic beauty transformed into a timeless design piece. Its aesthetics make it versatile and suitable for both classical settings and contemporary interiors, where it can add a touch of light and refinement.
Stima:€900
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€900

OCT 8 | 3:00 PM
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