Maso di Bartolomeo

This remarkable gold, gilt silver and niello pax dated 1518 featuring a copper applique of the Virgin, Child and a winged putto, ca. 1445-50, is attributed to Maso di Bartolomeo or his workshop (after designs associated with Luca Della Robbia). The maker of the present pax was a master goldsmith active in Florence during the first quarter of the 16th century. The architectural style of the pax descends from the small gilt-wood tabernacle frames made in late 15th century Florence like those produced by the workshop(s) of Giuliano (1432-90) and Benedetto da Maiano (1442-97). The present frame is remarkable in its construction. It is comprised of at least twenty-five separate pieces, masterfully integrated to produce a seamless finished work. Its maker leaves only nine expertly blended rivets exposed on the obverse and its assembly is equal to the complex facture of other important pax commissions of its time. The majority of the pax frame is cast in silver with gold gilding applied to its obverse using a mercury amalgam. The reverse backplate and handle of the pax are silver. The reverse features a dedicatory inscription above the handle: F • K • F • F (made for [Fieri Fecit] “F K”). The base of the reverse is inscribed with the date: MD/XVIII (1518). The pax handle features an engraved religious emblem possibly indicating an owner, church, treasury mark or religious order.