Vintage Olive Green Alabaster Box, Attributed to Romano Bianchi

Attributed to Italian designer Romano Bianchi, this 1970s , olive Green alabaster box turns a practical object into something altogether more decorative. Deep vertical carving wraps around the substantial rectangular body, while the smooth lid reveals the stone in cloudy shades of olive, smoky grey and cream, all sharply outlined by finely detailed silver-tone metalwork.

Hand-carved from natural Italian alabaster, the design has a distinctly masculine character, with the weight and solidity of the stone balanced by the precise metal framework. The deeply fluted exterior retains the irregularity and tactile quality of hand-worked stone, while a finely beaded border follows the opening and lid, bringing a more tailored finish to the rugged carving. The metal has developed areas of natural patination over time, which have purposefully been left untouched to preserve its original character.

Opening the hinged lid reveals another side of the alabaster. The rougher vertical texture disappears inside, giving way to smoothly finished stone where the natural clouding and subtle translucency become particularly visible. Each surface varies as the olive and smoky grey markings move through lighter areas of cream.

The design corresponds closely to documented 1970s Italian alabaster boxes attributed to Romano Bianchi, including examples of the same distinctive rectangular form, fluted treatment and decorative metal framework. Without a surviving maker’s mark or label, the attribution is based on these documented design comparisons rather than a signature on the piece itself.

Substantial at approximately 920 grams, the box works beautifully for watches, jewellery, personal objects or keepsakes. Its darker colouring, tactile carving and restrained 1970s character also make it particularly suited to a desk, study or masculine interior, where it can stand simply as a piece of Italian decorative design.

Measurements
Length: approx. 13.5 cm (5.31 in)
Depth: approx. 10 cm (3.94 in)
Height: approx. 6 cm (2.36 in)

Weight
Approx. 0.92 kg (2.03 lb)

Condition
The vintage object is in its original condition and may show signs of use. A small chip is present to one corner of the underside, together with surface wear consistent with age and use. The silver-tone metalwork retains areas of natural patination, which have purposefully been left untouched to preserve its original character.