Grand Tour Souvenir Antique Sorrento Ware Italy Marquetry Madonna Mary Donkey For Sale

What an Amazing Grand Tour Souvenir Estate Find!This Stunning Antique Italian Marquetry Sorrento Ware is decorated with a picture of a woman on a donkey- likely Madonna & appears to have been part of a Grand Tour Souvenir Mirror (mirror part is missing, see pictures- I can’t be certain that’s what is was, but that’s what my research leads me to believe) Stained & Inlaid in what looks to be Olive Wood, likely came from Campania, Italy (probably Naples or Sorrento) Period: 19th Century, Victorian (1837 to 1901) Believed to be Circa 1890sMeasures approximately 8” x 5.5” Material: Not sure the type of wood- these were typically crafted using native woods like walnut and olive, often featuring intricate patterns made from fruitwood or bird's-eye maple veneers.Inlay Design: This piece features a detailed marquetry picture of a woman traveling on a donkey. She looks to be pregnant & I believe is meant to depict the pregnant Virgin Mary. A signature of Sorrento craftsmanship, these scenes often depict traditional Italian peasant life- so it may just be a woman on a donkey, but I think it’s the Madonna. Functionality: Many of these pieces were designed to be adjustable or collapsible- I think this may have been part of a mirror- but cannot be certain as it’s only 1 piece & if it was a mirror, the mirror is missing. Still would look amazing on display & the hole at the top could be used for hanging. History & Context: Sorrento ware became highly popular during the 19th century as Grand Tour souvenirs for travelers visiting Italy. The tradition continues today, with families in Sorrento still using ancient hand-carving techniques to produce these prized inlaid objects.****READ****This Beautiful Estate Find is in Pre-Loved Antique Condition. There is signs of wear & some staining & tiny pieces of the wood missing that is commiserate with its age. Please see pictures for details of wear & condition from age. Sold as is, no returns.