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Attributed to Johann Christian Neuber — "Ringstein kabinett" with 52 stone specimen in original case in the shape of a book
Attributed to Johann Christian Neuber

"Ringstein kabinett" with 52 stone specimen in original case in the shape of a book

1790

This cabinet of curiosities presents fifty two polished semi precious stone specimens arranged in numbered compartments within a turquoise edged case that ingeniously opens like a leather bound book. The stones display a rich spectrum of colors and patterns, from deep blues and purples to warm ambers, earthy browns, and translucent whites, each stone oval or cabochon cut to reveal its natural markings and veining. The accompanying gilt leather binding, embossed with decorative ornamental details, functions as both protective housing and display frame, while a single gold ring set with an amethyst specimen suggests the practical application of these materials in fine jewelry. This meticulously organized collection exemplifies the Enlightenment fascination with natural history and the lapidary arts, combining scientific documentation with aesthetic appreciation of stone's inherent beauty.

Medium
52 semi-precious stones, gilt leather book binding, and gold ring
Location
David Zwirner 69th Street, New York, NY

Notes

From the exhibition 'Set in Stone' at David Zwirner 69th Street, NYC, May 12 to June 26, 2026, in collaboration with Galerie Kugel, Paris. Tombstone date: Dresden, c. 1790.

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About this work

Attributed to Johann Christian Neuber, "Ringstein kabinett" with 52 stone specimen in original case in the shape of a book, 1790

This cabinet of curiosities presents fifty two polished semi precious stone specimens arranged in numbered compartments within a turquoise edged case that ingeniously opens like a leather bound book. The stones display a rich spectrum of colors and patterns, from deep blues and purples to warm ambers, earthy browns, and translucent whites, each stone oval or cabochon cut to reveal its natural markings and veining. The accompanying gilt leather binding, embossed with decorative ornamental details, functions as both protective housing and display frame, while a single gold ring set with an amethyst specimen suggests the practical application of these materials in fine jewelry. This meticulously organized collection exemplifies the Enlightenment fascination with natural history and the lapidary arts, combining scientific documentation with aesthetic appreciation of stone's inherent beauty.

Medium
52 semi-precious stones, gilt leather book binding, and gold ring
Year
1790
Seen at
Adler Beatty, New York, NY

Related themes

Enlightenment Era, Semi Precious Stones, Precious Materials, Colored Stones, Decorative Arts, Polished Cabochon, Multicolored Palette, Hardstone Work, Gilt Leather Binding, Collector Object, Geometric Display, Leather Binding, Baroque Craftsmanship, Natural History Collection, Jewelry Materials, Specimen Display, Cabinet Of Curiosities, Lapidary Art, German, 18th Century