Capodimonte Porcelain Sugar Bowl, Mythology Venus Bacchus Ovid, 19th Century

A polychrome porcelain box or sugar bowl, most likely from Capodimonte (or Doccia), richly decorated with scenes inspired by Ovid's Metamorphoses*, featuring numerous gods and goddesses accompanied by children and animals on their bodies. The lid is decorated with the Triumph of Bacchus and the Chariot of Venus. Dating from the 19th century, this box is in excellent condition and of superb quality. It is signed with a gold leaf on the base. Note: there are minor enamel flaws and slight signs of age; see photos. *Ovid's Metamorphoses: Ovid wrote his Metamorphoses around the beginning of our era. Through traditional Greek and Roman legends, Ovid recounts, in fifteen books (representing more than twelve thousand lines), a series of short stories about the metamorphoses of gods, goddesses, heroes, and ordinary mortals. Illustrated editions of the Metamorphoses (published in Italy in 1471 and in France in 1553) contributed to the text's influence and success. Dimensions: 11 cm x 9.5 cm, Height 11.5 cm. Reference: 500 958. All photos are available at: www.antiques-delaval.com