Prayer and needlework table

Localisation : The Duchess’s bedroom (The Private Suites)
Année de création :1844
Artiste :Gabriele Capello

Description

Capello was one of the greatest 19th century Italian cabinetmakers, at a time when the techniques and traditions of skilled craftsmen were being challenged by the beginnings of industrialisation. As the label inside the drawer explains, this table was made in 1844 on commission from Marie-Christine of Bourbon-Siciles, who gave it as a gift to her niece, the Duchess of Aumale, when she got married. The sumptuous decor features ivory and rosewood marquetry. The tiny mosaic decorating the tabletop depicting the port of Naples and Vesuvius erupting is the work of G. Barberi. The ingenious design of this table enables a second tabletop to be liberated. The latter is decorated with miniatures of members of the Duchess’s family and that of her aunt, from whom she received this gift. A needlework box can be found inside the drawer. The second tabletop conceals a veritable mini oratory, with tortoiseshell compartments containing a prayer book and rosary beads, as well as an altarpiece adorned with three ivory plates depicting the Annunciation, Saint Amelia and Saint Christine.