Habsburg Treasures: At the Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna

ISBN: 0865652988

Author: Haag, Sabine

Condition: Used

Ten years after the tragic theft of Benvenuto Cellinis masterpiece, a gold and enamel saltcellar, Viennas Kunstkammer (Art Room) at the Kunsthistorisches Museum has reopened. Completely renovated, the gallery is once again showcasing the Habsburg dynastys exceptional collection of art and wonders. Here is a trove of sculptures and bronzes by such giants as Donatello and Giambologna, the worlds greatest collection of Baroque carved-ivory figures, and glorious Baroque silver goblets and vessels, as well as magically endowed natural wonders, such as ostrich eggs mounted in jewels, gold, and silver gilt. Pride of place is held by the Cellini saltcellar, which was found nearly 3 years after its disappearance in the woods 55 miles north of Vienna, as were the thieves. It had been buried underground and survived in perfect condition. With text by the museums director, Sabine Haag, and the curator of the Kunstkammer, Franz Kirchweger, alongside specially commissioned photography, this book celebrates a marvelous collection, at last reunited.