Italian Carved Lava Needle Case

This Italian carved lava needle case, dating from circa 1840-1880, is a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of its time. The intricately carved bearded face is a striking feature, likely intended as a souvenir piece. Originating from Italy, this antique showcases the unique qualities of lava stone, a medium prized for its durability and expressive potential in carving. The needle case’s compact dimensions and detailed artistry make it a fascinating object for collectors and enthusiasts of 19th-century European souvenirs.

Condition Report

The Italian carved lava needle case is in good condition, exhibiting minimal wear consistent with its age and historical use. The integrity of the carved details, including the bearded face, remains intact, demonstrating the durability of the lava stone material. There is slight wear visible on the surface, typical for an item of this age, which adds to its historical charm without detracting from its visual appeal. Overall, the needle case remains a well-preserved example of 19th-century Italian craftsmanship.

Dimensions

Weight: 20gm, Length: 8.5cm, Width: 1.2cm, Height: 1.5cm.

A Practical Tool for the Needleworker

Originally, this carved lava needle case served as a practical tool for needleworkers, providing a protective and portable storage solution for needles. Its compact size and durable material made it an ideal travel companion, ensuring that essential sewing tools were always within reach. The intricacy of the carving may have also been intended to reflect the owner’s appreciation for fine craftsmanship, while the durable nature of the lava stone protected its contents from damage.

19th-Century Souvenir Style

This needle case is a fine example of the souvenir style popular in the 19th century. During this period, travellers often purchased such items as mementoes of their journeys. The bearded face carved into the case is indicative of the era’s fascination with detailed and expressive artistry, capturing the spirit of the times. Such pieces were commonly created for tourists visiting Italy, a country renowned for its rich artistic heritage. The use of lava stone, sourced from volcanic regions such as Mount Vesuvius, added an element of exotic appeal, making these items highly collectible.

The Art of Lava Stone Carving

The Italian carved lava needle case exemplifies the meticulous craft of lava stone carving, a practice that requires skill and precision. Artisans of the time expertly utilised the medium’s unique properties, such as its fine grain and workability, to produce detailed carvings. Lava stone, being resilient yet malleable, allowed for the creation of intricate designs, such as the bearded face on this case. This process involved careful planning and execution to maintain the structural integrity of the final piece, ensuring it could endure as both a functional and decorative object.

A Creation by Skilled Italian Artisans

The needle case was likely crafted by skilled Italian artisans, who were renowned for their ability to work with various materials, including lava stone. These artisans drew on centuries of tradition and technique, passing down their knowledge through generations. While the specific maker of this needle case is unknown, the quality and detail suggest it was produced by an experienced craftsman familiar with the demands of the medium. Such artisans contributed significantly to the souvenir market, creating pieces that captured the imagination of travellers and collectors alike.

Collected by Enthusiasts of 19th-Century Souvenirs

This type of antique is highly sought after by collectors of 19th-century souvenirs, who appreciate its historical context and artistic merit. The Italian carved lava needle case represents a tangible connection to the past, offering insights into the cultural practices and artisanal skills of the era. Collectors value these items for their historical significance, beauty, and the stories they embody. As a result, such needle cases continue to be cherished additions to collections, admired for their craftsmanship and enduring appeal.