A MAJOR NAPOLITAN NURSERY

In a rectangular display case with three glazed panels, specially designed for the nativity scene and featuring a drawer running along the base, resting on a Louis XIII-style table with twisted natural wood legs.
It comprises 22 figures, including the Holy Family, shepherds and two angels, as well as animals such as a donkey, an ox, sheep, a goat and dogs, alongside groups of vegetables, baskets of fruit made from painted terracotta, wood, textiles, leather and so on.
Italy, Naples, late 18th century and 19th century.
Display cabinet and painted diorama with a cork grotto added at a later date.
Collector’s label: “Théodore Petitjean Collection at the Neuvillette Glassworks, Reims”.
Height of the diorama: 100 cm – Width: 78 cm – Depth: 60 cm (display cabinet)
Total height of the piece: 182.5 cm
(Numerous chips and missing parts; display cabinet adapted for electric lighting)