Detail View: The AMICA Library: Inkstand
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AMICA ID:
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MIA_.69.80.1a,b
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AMICA Library Year:
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1998
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Object Type:
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Decorative Arts and Utilitarian Objects
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Creator Name:
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Coaci, Vincenzo
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Creator Nationality:
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European; Southern European; Roman
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Creator Role:
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artist
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Gender:
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M
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Creator Name-CRT:
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Vincenzo Coaci
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Title:
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Inkstand
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View:
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Front
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Creation Date:
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1792
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Creation Start Date:
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1792
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Creation End Date:
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1792
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Materials and Techniques:
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silver, silver gilt, lapis lazuli and rosso antico, marble
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Classification Term:
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silver
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Dimensions:
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H.28-1/2 x W.20-1/2 x D.14-3/4 in.
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Component Measured:
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overall
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Measurement Unit:
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in
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AMICA Contributor:
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The Minneapolis Institute of Arts
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Owner Location:
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Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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ID Number:
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69.80.1a,b
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Credit Line:
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Gift of the Morse Foundation
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Inscriptions:
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SIGNATURE
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Rights:
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Context:
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This magnificent inkstand commemorates the erection of the Quirinale Monument in Rome, during the pontificate of Pius VI. The monument, which still stands today outside the Palazzo Quirinale, includes an Egyptian obelisk that was unearthed near the Mausoleum of Augustus, two Roman sculptures of horse tamers, and a fountain. The ingenious inkstand was presented to the pope by Luigi Ercolani in 1792. The horse tamers can be swung from their bases by levers, revealing an inkwell and a sander for drying ink. The sphinxes' headdresses conceal candle sockets. One of the drawers contains an assortment of trompe l'oeil engravings, including Coaci's trade card. The two doves can be made to kiss by means of a lever located under the fountain. The inkstand's leather carrying case looks like a fortified medieval town--with gates, battlements, and a bell tower--to ensure the protection of this precious object. |
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Related Multimedia Description:
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Antenna Audio: Permanent Collection Tour
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Related Image Identifier Link:
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MIA_.7932c.tif
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