A rare gilt pewter, painted wood, papermaché, polychromed and flameworked glass figural diorama, probably Nevers mid 18th Century

depicting the Last Supper with Christ surmounted by a baldachin and surrounded by disciples and servants, the table lain with food and cutlery and placed in an open architectural setting with Ionic pillars, statues and putti

In overall restored condition. Most of the glaced papermaché with drynesscracks and losses. Minor (restored) damages to the figures, especially to the hands. Wear to the gilding. In gilt wood 18th Century frame. (CHECK!)
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The art of making dioramas with flameworked glass figures originated (like faience) in Italy and spread out to France in the 16th century. The first and most famous centre was Nevers in central France, but important workshops were also set up elsewhere.
The glass figures made in Nevers, from the late 16th upto the early 19th Century, have been mistaken for fine porcelain but were made of flameworked glass rods and tubes. The subjects can be religious, mythological, historical, allegorical, or anecdotal.

Comparable dioramas can be found in the collections of the Musée municipal Frédéric Blandin in Nevers (inv. no. NOA 998.3.2) and the Coring Museum of Glass in New York (inv. no. 2002.3.22).