Ivory sphere with carvings depicting Samson

The two hemispheres fit tightly together, opening and closing by means of a copper hinge. The interior of each hemisphere is carved in deep relief with a scene from the Old Testament: Samson slaying the lion and Delilah cutting Samson's hair. The latter carving, with the guards waiting to enter the room in the background, is reminiscent of Rubens' famous depiction of this scene. The carving is highly detailed and very finely executed. The exterior of the entire sphere is carved with elaborate, raised geometric designs. Diameter: 55 mm