A French cast bronze jewelry box intricately designed and handcrafted, circa 1880s.
This intricately carved box depicts the romantic poem of Le Roman de la Rose (The Romance of the Rose).
19th century, elaborately cast in high relief depicting scenes in the manner of David Teniers, warm dark brown patina.
Le Roman de la Rose, begun by Guillaume de Lorris circa 1230 and completed, in a different style, circa 1270-1280, by Jean de Meun, builds on the concept of courtly love found in the poetry of the troubadours. The authors create a complex allegory of the romance between the Lover and the Rose. In the quest to pick the Rose (to achieve the conquest of love), the flower and its attendants represent the Lady and her sentiments while being wooed.
In the first part of the poem, written by de Lorris, the Lover recounts his dream, ending with the winning of a kiss from the Lady. In the dream, the Lover discovers a walled garden and gains entrance thanks to a beautiful young woman. He meets Diversion and dancers who represent courtly values such as Beauty and Generosity. A tour of the garden brings him to a beautiful bed of roses by the Fountain of Love...
Category
19th Century French Renaissance Antique Bronze Sterling Silver