Exceptional genuine elephant ivory figure of a woman, carved, I believe no later than the 18th century.
Measures 8 3/8inches excluding the base. 9 1/2inches high including the base.
Old ivory has incredible butterly patina - smootheness that only centuries can produce.
Upon first glance, the figurine looks fairly stylised, but closer inspection reveals amazing subtlety and delicately carved detail. She wears a finely carved long dress with delicate folds and scallops at the bottom, revealing the tips of her feet. Her hands are enclosed in a muff or cascading cloth. Her face is magnificent: wonderful detail to features. A subtle smile plays around her mouth, she has marvellous dimples, a very slight double chin, eyes closed in pleasure and an amazing complex hairstyle that only a rich noblewoman could have sported. Ears are long and spiralling.
Ebonised wooden base in the form of a double flower.
Excellent condition.No damage of any sort.

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