Small Temple-like Structure In Ebonized Wood

The photograph shows an ebonized miniature temple (*tempietto*). The piece is distinguished by an elegant semicircular balustrade that defines the frontal stage area, flanked on either side by two finely carved twisted columns (*colonnette a torciglione*) that lend a sense of upward movement and Baroque dynamism to the entire structure. At the center of this architectural stage stands a precious sculpture of a female figure, carved from horn. Materials: Ebonized wood, carved horn. Structural elements: Twisted columns, shaped semicircular balustrade. The figure rests on a square base. Period: 19th century.