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Victorian Coral Stickpin of Figural Face in the Motif of the Grotesque

About the Item

We love our wonderfully esoteric Grotesque man (or "other") crafted by a talented unknown carver in the 19th century from a chunk of the most desirable orange-red toned coral. Connoisseurs of literature or theater or the arts understand the term Grotesque as referring to fantastical, exaggerated or distorted representations, usually of the human face or figure. (The word "grotesque" originates from the Italian "grottesca", meaning of a cave" (grotto = cave in Italian) and refers to doubled, metamorphosed, or altered forms). Originally Italian, the concept of the Grotesque was used in French and German literature as well, and is a an integral part of English literature and theatre (The Theatre of the Grotesque preceded the Theatre of the Absurd) today. We find our Grotesque stickpin guy (gal) to be not grotesque at all but endearing, with his (or her) exaggerated features and droopy skin folds. And as a reference to classic theatre, this coral stickpin is a gem, indeed.
  • Metal:
    15k Gold
  • Stone:
    Coral
  • Stone Cut:
  • Dimensions:
    Diameter: 0.7 in (17.78 mm)
  • Style:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
    1880-1889
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1900
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use.
  • Seller Location:
    Baltimore, MD
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU25112821162

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