Portable desk (91.85.A)

Portable slope front writing desk featuring micro mosaic panels. Hinged writing flap oval scene of a shepherd milking a goat while a maiden and other goats watch. Top plateau with floral motif. The front has various oval scenes of ancient Roman ruins and the Vatican; the sides have foliate scrolls and doves with plaque scenes of Trajan's Column and the Column of Marcus Aurelius. The back has two panels of the colosseum and the Roman Forum. Panels mounted in a gilt bronze frame featuring foliate base molding and female figures at front corners. Interior opens to reveal light blue velvet and silk lined fitted interior.

Provenance Narrative
A member of a well-known family of Roman mosaicists, Cesare Roccheggiani was active at the Vatican Mosaic Workshop from 1856 to 1864, before establishing his own independent shop at 125, via Babuino, and then at 14-15 via Condotti, both near the Piazza di Spagna.

Place Made
ItalyRome