Cork, glass, wood, painted paper
Germany, 19th century
Two detailed dioramas
One depicting a rocky landscape with river, houses and castle setting
One featuring a snowy riverside with trees, a horse drawn sleigh as well as windmills with rotating sails
Spring driven automaton 
Each delicately painted
Enclosed within glazed wooden display cases
Dimensions of cases: 66 x 80 x 8.9 cm, 61.5 x 71.5 x 11 cm
Good working condition, consistent with age
Rare and exceptional objects of folk art, rendered in decorative and detailed workmanship

The technique of cork modeling, also called phelloplastics, was developed in the 18th century and used mainly to produce precise architectural models. The cork material lends itself particularly well to mimicking different textures, for example the characteristic weathered wall surface of old buildings. Offered models are nice examples for this. Particularly remarkable is the automaton for turning the sails of one of the diorama’s windmills, which can be released via a lever on the left hand side of the frame.

Condition:

The cork dioramas are in good condition, consistent with age and bearing signs of age and wear. The paper is discolored and partially stained, in places tears and warps. Some cork elements are broken off. The cases are bumped and rubbed in places. The dimensions measure 66 x 80 x 8.9 cm and 61.5 x 71.5 x 11 cm. (nlu)

Shipping costs excl. statutory VAT and plus 2,5% (+VAT) shipping insurance.