Antique semi-precious stone and silver-gilt egg model

Antique semi-precious stone and silver-gilt egg model
Continental, Late 19th Century
Height 19cm, diameter 8cm
 
This superb decorative egg model is inset with a charming scene on the interior.
 
The egg stands on a flared base of fluted rock crystal, which is applied with semi-precious stones and a silver-gilt collar around the neck of the base. The egg itself is separated into six silver-gilt bordered panels: four on the main body, plus the bottom and top of the egg. The exterior is heavily embellished – the four main panels are applied with a fruit bowl that sits inside a foliate and ribbon cartouche inset with semi-precious stones. Similar motifs adorn the top and base of the egg, and the object is surmounted by a peal and silver-gilt finial.
 
The front two panels of the main body are hinged, and open to reveal the scene inside. In the centre is a group of figures who dance around a maypole, dressed in a typical historical fashion. The scene is surrounded by various shrubs, and sits on a sand base. The very top of the interior is applied with a silver-gilt sun that ‘shines’ onto the scene below. The interior sides of the hinged panels are also decorated - with countryside scenes that evoke the style of English genre painting. Both display a typical courtship scene set within a pastoral landscape. These three miniature scenes are a true surprise for the viewer, and add to the intrigue of this unusual object.
 
The monogram ‘H. H.’ is inscribed on the interior of the right hinged panel.
 
This unusual object is a true collectable, filled with hidden features that are impeccably designed.