Description
This beautiful casket, likely made in one of Bethlehem’s renowned workshops in the early 19th century, features an intricate exterior adorned with micro-mosaic marquetry.
The design comprises countless finely cut, thin pieces of mother-of-pearl, predominantly arranged in geometric square and triangle shapes.
The decoration is primarily composed of hundreds of meticulously overlaid small square pieces of mother-of-pearl.
These squares alternate with equally sized squares, each made up of five smaller micro-mosaic wooden beads and four additional mother-of-pearl pieces, creating a cross-like pattern.
The side panels highlight two large, carved rectangular mother-of-pearl inlays depicting blossoming floral motifs. The front panel includes an additional carved mother-of-pearl piece accommodating the keyhole.
The central top is adorned with an oval-shaped panel engraved with a floral wreath and surrounded by a radiant sun motif.
Inside, the lid is fitted with a mirror and features early 20th-century hinges and metal fittings.
The edges are overlaid with alternating light and dark wood beadings, adding to its charm.
The casket stands on four ball-shaped feet and includes a working key lock.
