Malachite Book In

A rare and remarkable display case made of natural malachite, crafted in the shape of a book, containing a collection of twenty-four mineral specimens carefully arranged in compartments lined with cotton.
The inside of the lid still bears its original label identifying each specimen, including its name, chemical composition, and place of origin in Katanga (now the Democratic Republic of the Congo), notably the famous sites of Kolwezi, Likasi, Kipushi, Kamoto, Kambove, Musonoi, Shangalowe, Fungurume, and Kasérélésa.

The collection brings together several minerals emblematic of Katanga’s copper and cobalt deposits: crystalline malachite, azurite, chrysocolla, shattuckite, heterogenite, bornite, chalcocite, smithsonite, carrolite, kolwezite on spherocobaltite, fibrous malachite, dolomite, goethite, as well as various rare mineral associations.

The box is entirely inlaid with malachite featuring magnificent concentric and cloud-like veining, arranged in a geometric marquetry pattern.
The original metal hinges have been preserved.

At once a scientific artifact, a memento of the great mining operations in Katanga, and a remarkable example of hardstone inlay work, this box will appeal to mineralogy enthusiasts, collectors of natural curiosities, and curators of cabinets of curiosities.

21.5 × 28 × 4.8 cm.

A rare piece that combines the scientific interest of a historic mineralogical collection with the refinement of a luxurious malachite case.

Please note: there are missing pieces and the hinge needs to be reattached.