Object Description
This is a fabulous antique French Crystal de Sevres ormolu mounted ruby crystal jewellery casket, Circa 1870 in date.
The rectangular shaped hinged ormolu mounted casket features faceted corners, it is superbly decorated with an enamelled Hector & Achilles in combat from the Trojan war, the front, rear and sides are decorated with gilt panels.
The quality and craftsmanship throughout are truly second to none.
Condition:
In excellent condition. With no chips, cracks or signs of repair, please see photos for confirmation.
Dimensions in cm:
Height 12 cm x Width 22 cm x Depth 17.5 cm
Dimensions in inches:
Height 5 inches x Width 9 inches x Depth 7 inches
Cristal de Sèvres
is a prestigious French manufacturer of high-quality crystal, with roots tracing back to 1750 under the patronage of Madame de Pompadour and Louis XV. Renowned for luxurious, often etched or frosted, clear crystal, they produce items like stemware, vases, figurines, and decanters.
The glassworks originated from a desire to create elegant, superior-quality glassware in France, with the manufacturing tradition spanning over two centuries.
Known for heavy, high-quality crystal, with styles often compared to Baccarat. They frequently use techniques like satin or frosted finishes.
Hector and Achilles,
the two opposing heroes in Homer’s epic poem, The Iliad.
Hector: The prince of Troy, the greatest Trojan warrior, and a devoted family man (husband to Andromache). He is often viewed as the moral, human hero of The Iliad, fighting out of duty to protect his city.
Achilles: The greatest Greek warrior, known for his unmatched strength and pride. He is portrayed as a demi-god driven by fury after his friend Patroclus is killed.
The Conflict
The Catalyst: Hector kills Patroclus, the beloved companion of Achilles, while Patroclus is wearing Achilles’ armor.
The Battle: Consumed by rage and grief, Achilles returns to battle to seek vengeance. He chases Hector around the walls of Troy three times before fighting him.
The Death of Hector: Achilles kills Hector by piercing his neck with a spear.
The Desecration: In his rage, Achilles refuses to return Hector’s body for burial, instead dragging it behind his chariot for days.
The Resolution: King Priam of Troy, Hector’s father, secretly visits Achilles and begs for his son’s body, which moves Achilles to finally allow a proper burial.
Our reference: A4892