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Symbolist Wrought Iron Sculpture 1890 / 1920 of a Serpent coiled in the Tree

About the Item

Symbolist Wrought Iron Sculpture of a Snake coiled around a Tree • Height, ca. 13 cm • Width, ca. 15.5 cm (measured at the base) • Depth, ca. 11 cm (Measured at the base) • Weight, ca. 1200 grams (1.2 kilograms) Extraordinarily fine wrought iron work by an unknown, most talented craftsman. ... Take your time and look closely ... so many different forging and decoration techniques in one piece! I sourced this intriguing object decades ago on an antiques market in Switzerland and neither the previous owner, nor I know for what purpose it might have been intended - Maybe part of something larger ? I have come to think that it might well be master black smith’ / journeyman's work, demonstrating all the various techniques and processes possible when forging and shaping hard iron. I have used it as a paperweight, respectively as a desk ornament and enjoyed it when working in my office. As far as the subject matter goes, I would say it most likely depicts the whispering Serpent in the Garden of Eden The exact age or the original place of origin of this object are unknown to me - Although it looks a lot earlier, I will describe it as European and date it to the late 19th/ early 20th century - say 1890-1920. Thank you for your interest and please note, that I offer free worldwide shipping on all my items.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 5.12 in (13 cm)Width: 6.11 in (15.5 cm)Depth: 4.34 in (11 cm)
  • Medium:
  • Movement & Style:
  • Period:
  • Condition:
    Partially the surface has a fine rust patina, other sections appear somewhat blackened - Basically I left in untouched, 'as found' condition. Could be for example easily 'waxed' - This decision to be taken is a privilege, privy to future owner.
  • Gallery Location:
    Meinisberg, CH
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: BS_0_1841stDibs: LU166829566422
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