PUMPKIN POWDER FLASK WITH FOUR ALLEGORIES - The Embden Collection Venice, early 17th century. Hardened pumpkin engraved with four female allegories: woman with a column (Steadfastness), woman with a cross and chalice (Faith), woman with an anchor (Hope), woman with two children (Charity). Additional decoration in the form of wind-blowing grotesque faces, arabesques, and cherubs in the lower section. Silver clasp on a chain. H 11 cm. Decoration slightly faded. Silver tarnished. Provenance: The Arlette and Antony Embden Collection, France. The geographical classification is based on two similar powder flasks made of hardened pumpkin from the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna (inv. no. Kunstkammer 7240 & 7243). Another example from the French art market has Dutch marks, which is why a location in the Netherlands cannot be ruled out. * The full tax is charged on this item marked *, i.e. VAT is charged on the sum will be refunded to Purchasers providing a validly stamped export declaration.