Plaque ronde en vermeil provenant d'une coupe, France ou Hollande, vers 1570

repoussée et ciselée du mythe de Niobé, tiré des Métamorphoses d'Ovide, Chapitre VI




embossed and chased with the story of Niobe from Ovid's Metamorphosis Chapter VI

The reverse with original scraps of silver to strenghen the screw. This screw is now removed. Traces of what was probably the rest of the orignal s tazza which was cut to remove the plaquette and folded over to strengthen the rim. Five holes in rim where the plaquette has been pinned. General condition is good with attractive wear to the gilding. well chased and an interesting piece.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Cette plaque, conservée grâce à sa qualité artistique, fut probablement enlevée du fond d'une coupe fondue pour raison monétaire. En levant la coupe pour boire, il était ainsi possible de voir cette magnifique scène, référence classique dans la culture du XVI^e siècle. Les Thébéennes vénèrent Leto, mère d'Apollon et de Diane, mais Niobé les pousse à la vénérer à sa place, elle qui eut plus d'enfants que la déesse elle-même. Leto se plaint auprès de ses enfants;  Diane et Apollon la vengent en tuant les enfants de Niobé.

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This plaquette, retained for its artistic worth has most probably been cut from the bowl of a tazza which was broken-up to raise money. As someone lifted the tazza to drink, they would look down on the plaquette which skillfully tells a story as its turned, full of allusion to the classically educated of the 16th century. How the Theban women worship Latona, mother of Apollo and Diana. Niobe is jealous and persuades the woman to worship her instead because she has so many wonderful children, unlike Latona who only has two. Latona complains to Apollo and Diana who slaughter Niobe's children in revenge.