The ivory serves as a testament to the rise of France as the most powerful nation at the end of the 17th century under the rule of Louis XIV. It highlights the extraordinary contribution of Huguenot artists and craftsmen to European Enlightenment culture. Furthermore it demonstrates the links between France and Scotland, and the supreme skill of its native ivory carvers, transmitted to the British Isles by the creator of this most unusual piece.

Provenance

Jean de Biensan, member of Louis XVI's personal guard; by descent until 19th century;...; dealer, Paris; private collection, London and New York, 2004; Daniel Katz Ltd. The work has been vetted by the Art Loss Register.