A Dutch silver box embossed with mythological scenery 1690 - 1720

Willem Roukens

Silver
14 ⨯ 10 cm, ø 6 cm
ConditionExcellent
Currently unavailable via Gallerease

• About the artwork
  The sides of the oval box are chased with flute-playing putti and putti frolicking with various animals. The detachable lid, embossed with the mythological scenery of ‘Venus trying to prevent Adonis from going hunting’, is after an engraving by Pieter Schenk I, who was active in Amsterdam from ca. 1687-1700. The engraving is in the collection of the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam.
  
  Willem Roukens was a skilled master, who was praised for his chase-work. From his hand an oblong box in similar outline, chased with Bacchantes, has been recorded in Beeling II.
  
  Associate literature:
  Hollstein Dutch 318 (engraving Pieter Schenk I).
• About the artist
  Willem Roukens or Wilhelm Rockus was a Dutch silversmith and active in Nijmegen and Wesel. He was a skilled master, who was praised for his chase-work. He was active in the late 17th century.