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The figures in the print may be contemporary, 18th century portraits.

Ladies had their portraits painted dressed as Greek Goddesses or mythological Queens . Emma, Lady Hamilton, was painted in many a classical guise, including all of the three muses in a single picture! In her self portraits, Angelica Kauffman chose to portray herself as a figure of antiquity.

The hand coloured print on the top depicts a classical scene. There are four women on the left ant two seated men on the right. The background is possibly Mount Parnassus.

The women may be the Muses. One has a lyre in her left hand which would indicate that she is Erato. Another women has a bow. Does this mean that she is Dianna who was not one of the Muses?

I have been unable thus far to make a positive identification of the print.

The Muses were Euterpe, Thalia, Melpomene, Terpsichore, Erato, Polymnia Urania, and Calliope.

In Greek mythology the Muses represent elements of inspiration. often in the arts but also in the sciences.

Description:
Ref: WB615 http://www.hygra.com/uk/n11/WB615

A George III penwork and rosewood writing slope of rare and complex form, the pyramided top decorated with a colored engraving depicting a classical theme. The box has two compartmentalized drawers to the sides. The top opens to a sloping writing surface with replacement leather writing surface and a lift out pen tray. There is a compartment for storing papers beneath the writing surface. The particular form makes the box ideal for personal correspondence. The raised lid would allow the box to be closed with a half written letter still in situe. The box could be locked for privacy. Boxes combining pen work with rosewood are rare. We document a few in our book Antique Boxes Tea Caddies, and Society, which may be from the same workshop.
Origin: UK; Circa1800: ; Materials: .

Size: 37.2 cm wide by 31.8 cm by 18.5 cm tapering to 14.5 cm: 14.7 inches wide by 12.5 inches by 7.3 inches tapering to 5.7 inches.

Condition: good overall for period; working lock and key; see images and individual notes.

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All text and images and linked images are © 1999-2011 Antigone Clarke and Joseph O'Kelly. If you require any further information on permitted use, or a licence to republish any material, email us at copyright@hygra.com