Antique Mother-of-Pearl Wax Seal with Hand-Carved Botanical Decoration | Circa Late 19th Century

Antique Mother of Pearl Desk Seal with Carved Floral Handle

Simply beautiful in the hand. The tapering handle is cut from mother of pearl that shimmers pink, green and silver as it turns. The front is carved in low relief with a flowering sprig whose leaves and stems are picked out in gilt, in the flowing manner of the Art Nouveau, and the back is left smooth and polished so the natural luster can shine. It sits on a gilt collar with a fine beaded edge and a square base.

The seal face is blank, never engraved, so it is ready to be personalized with your own initials or crest by an engraver. A wonderful gift for anyone who loves writing letters, and just as pretty displayed on a dressing table or desk.

Dating stylistically to the late Victorian or Belle Époque period, this charming little object recalls an era when handwritten correspondence was an art form and even the smallest desk accessories were made with beauty and intention.

Perfect displayed among antique books, nestled into a writing desk, or added to a collection of beautiful antique writing instruments.

Details

Origin: France
Period: c. 1890 to 1910
Style: Art Nouveau
Material: Carved mother of pearl with gilt highlights; gilt bronze mount
Seal: Blank (uncut) square face
Approximate Measurements

Height: 3.25"
Seal face: .25" 

Condition

Very good antique condition. Tarnish to the blank seal face. 

A small luxury for the writing desk, waiting for its owner's initials.