A Rare *memento Mori* "vanitas" In Finely Carved Ivory, Housed In Its Case

Rare *Memento Mori* "Vanitas" in finely carved and articulated ivory, housed in its coffin-shaped case – Italy, 18th century
Object description:
Period: 18th century

Origin: Italy

Materials: Finely carved ivory, embossed and gilded leather, velvet, brass

Dimensions:
Skeleton: Height 12 cm
Coffin (case): 17.5 x 6.5 x h 5 cm

Condition: Excellent original condition, beautiful period patina.

Documentation: Sold with an official CITES certificate (IT/CE/2023/MI/00557).

A rare and fascinating *Wunderkammer* (cabinet of curiosities) sculpture depicting an articulated human skeleton, crafted from finely carved ivory with remarkable attention to anatomical detail.
The piece is housed in its original coffin-shaped case. The exterior of the case is covered in period leather, embossed and decorated with figurative motifs, and retains fine traces of gold leaf; the closure is secured by four original chiseled brass clasps. The interior is richly lined with the original yellow velvet, complete with a small padded headrest.

Historical and Artistic Context: This piece fits perfectly into the iconographic tradition of *Vanitas* and *Memento Mori*, which were highly prized during the 17th and 18th centuries. Far from being a mere macabre object, this miniature sculpture served as a tool for philosophical meditation on the brevity of life and human destiny, intended for the private collection of a scholar, a physician, or an aristocrat. The combined presence of the ivory sculpture and its complete original case, made of leather and velvet, makes this object an exceptionally rare piece for the most discerning collectors.