Brecciated Marble Offal Box – Louis XV Period, 18th Century

An exceptional brecciated marble offal box, dating from the 18th century, from the Louis XV period. Its front is carved with a remarkable rocaille design in high relief, featuring an imposing seashell, foliage, and volutes, attesting to the quality of craftsmanship in the workshops of that era.The molded lid is mounted on its original hinges and closes perfectly thanks to its original lock with its key, which is present and functional.The interior, characteristic of this type of object, confirms its use as a viscera box, intended to hold the internal organs removed during funeral rites reserved for high-ranking figures. These boxes, which are extremely rare, are today major historical artifacts attesting to the funeral rites of the Ancien Régime. The marble, with its magnificent shades of purple, gray, and white, provides a natural backdrop of great elegance that highlights the richness of the carving.Period: 18th century, Louis XV. Material: Brecciated marble. Condition: Very good condition. Original hinges, lock, and key are present and functional. Slight wear consistent with its age.