european ivory

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This ivory case is engraved and incised on the obverse with a view of the Karlskirche in Vienna. The sides and reverse are decorated with floral scroll work and the mounts of the hinged lid are of plaited yellow and rose gold. The case measures 1 3/4" x 3 1/4". It sold in the USA in May 2002 for $620 (about £340 at the time).

Begun in 1715, the Karlskirche is the largest Baroque-style cathedral north of the Alps. It is composed of a number of contrasting elements which unite to form a unique and harmonious whole: two columns frame the main portal which resembles a Greek temple, and the oval nave of the church is topped by a 72 meter high dome. The area in front of the Karlskirche was redesigned in the 1970s by sculptor, Henry Moore, and his artwork 'Hill Arches' adorns an oval water basin which reflects the church building.