Spun Glass Diorama. St Francis Preaching To The Animals. Nevers 18th Century.

San Francesco d'Assisi is depicted standing, holding an upright cross. Around the Saint, animals representing all the species of creation move in a landscape of hills planted with trees, plants and flowers. A spring springs from a rock and flows into a small pond. The theme is "universal brotherhood with all creatures", illustrating a period in the life of Saint Francis when he drew closer to the animal world. "Creation reconciled". Represented in drawn glass are: wolf, deer, sheep, snail, dog, duck, snake, swan, hen, lark, waterfall and the Saint. Trees are tufts of silk thread. The shells, the beetle, some of the flowers and the immortal mushroom are natural. All other elements are made of paper and cardboard cut-outs. A small mirror behind the Saint adds depth to the landscape, while another mirror serves as a duck pond. The floor is covered with shiny colored glass flakes. Possibly mica and mother-of-pearl. Gilded wooden frame. Cardboard casing. Original protective glass. Diorama of very fine quality, details executed with the greatest care, good choice and arrangement of colors ostentatious without being vulgar, which is rarely the case with dioramas that are confused and sad. This is an artist's work, not a craftsman's work. Good condition, no restoration, only the frame has been reinforced. French work from the 18th century, made in Nevers. 340x275x115mm.
"Pace e Bene".