High Relief In Meerschaum (hydrated Magnesium Silicate, Calcite) - Louis-philippe.

High relief in meerschaum (hydrated magnesium silicate, calcite) - Louis-Philippe.

Splendid high relief depicting the Virgin Mary surrounded by angels.

Sculpted in meerschaum, a petrified limestone, also known as calcite.

The artist created a matrix and then a negative mold.
The mold was placed under petrifying water rich in calcium carbonate (stalactite), which completely covered it with limestone.
The excess limestone was then removed from the mold.

The workmanship is precise, with well-defined details that give depth and movement to the scene. It is in perfect condition, with a beautiful patina.

It is housed in an elegant oval wooden frame gilded with gold leaf and beneath its original domed glass, the sculpture is extraordinarily lifelike and exquisitely crafted. It is dated December 8, 1854, and signed "S. Marchi. 1855".

Dimensions: with frame 38 x 32 cm - foam 29.5 x 22