Antique Brooch 1758 whale carving Art Nouveau 18k gold mount Saintly statue(7287)

Antique Georgian carving in a Victorian Art Nouveau brooch mount. Also works as a statuette. 18k gold and sperm whale carving. Made in Italy. 1758 and circa 1895-1905.
Comes with scientifically tested Certificate of Authenticity from CESAR Centrostudiaarcheometrici, Rome and Milan, Italy.
Unisex - suitable for a man or a woman.

Measurements: Weight is 14.9 grams. 1 3/4 inches (4.5cm) long.

Description : Fascinating religious and decorative figural brooch statuette. A hand-carved figurine of a holy or saintly figure, kneeling in front of a basket of bread or other foodstuffs. The scientific analysis confirms that it was carved circa 1758 of sperm whale or killer whale and conforms to CITES rules. We were told that in Italy, during previous centuries, figures like this were popular as Christmas decorations. This very well carved holyman was set in a gold mount during the late Victorian era. The mount is very Art Nouveau in style - depicting a bonsai like tree, with twisted trunk that carves around the figure, like an arch, the branches bearing large flowers and foliage, naturalistically modelled in gold.
The gold work is beautifully executed and exquisitely designed.
A very secure trombone clasp makes it wearable as a brooch by a man or a woman. In addition, a naturalistic gold base allows it to stand independently.
A wonderful example of jewelry that is also a breathtaking lovely sculpture with spiritual significance.

CESAR Centrostudiaarcheometrici: The mobile laboratory for scientific diagnostics in cultural and precious products. They confirm that the item conforms to CITES rules and include a document of authenticity. 

Marks and Metal: No marks found. The Italian certificate confirms that it is 18k gold and we tested the gold electronically to confirm metal purity.

Condition: Good with negligible wear commensurate with age. Please see enlarged pictures and don't hesitate to ask questions which we will do our best to answer.