This 1920s cigars box is an exquisite example of Sorrento marquetry, designed to resemble a row of leather-bound books. The front facade features eleven hand-carved wooden "spines" labeled with Roman numerals I through XI, each finished with delicate black ink detailing to simulate library gilding. The lid is crafted with a rounded edge to mimic the spine of a larger volume, seamlessly blending the box into a bookshelf or a refined desktop setting. The top of the box showcases intricate wood inlay work, known as tarsia, featuring a charming central vignette of an open jewelry or trinket box depicting a coastal landscape and a church. This central image is flanked by two elongated, diagonally placed cigar motifs, further identifying its intended use. Delicate botanical scrolls and leaves are etched into the honey-toned wood surface, adding a layer of organic elegance to the geometric book design. Constructed from warm, polished fruitwood, the box opens on a simple hinge to reveal a spacious interior suitable for cigars or personal treasures. The craftsmanship reflects the traditional woodworking techniques of the Sorrento region, characterized by the use of contrasting wood grains and meticulous hand-painted accents. The piece shows a gentle, authentic patina with minor surface scuffs that speak to its vintage history and functional charm.
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SILVER Seller in Catania, Italy
