Wooden skull topped with stylized tree trunk (?), ritual sculpture, 18th-19th century (?)
1.325,00 €
A unique sculpture depicting a realistically carved human skull, embraced from above by 4 handles resembling claws or roots (?), which above join and twist into a single unit, resembling a stylized tree trunk, flat-cut from above, with a groove carved all the way through. The object is made of dense exotic wood of dark caramel color, with anatomical details (skull seam, nasal openings, teeth) carved with extreme precision. There is no indication of the object’s connection to religious worship (e.g. as the base of a crucifix), rather it served as a ritual, ceremonial prop. The symbolism of the skull may also indicate a connection with “memnto mori” type objects. A great curiosity!
1 in stock
Memento mori
The skull is one of the oldest symbols of death and transience in Christian and occult iconography. The crowning in the form of a twisted tree trunk may suggest the idea of growth from death, rebirth or the power of nature. The form evokes associations with meditative monastic artifacts or ritual tools used in contemplative practices.
Historical context
Such objects were most often created outside the official mainstream of religious art - in esoteric, Masonic circles or semi-private initiation cults. Skull symbolism, present in monasteries, hermits' cells, or penitential rituals, served as a reminder of the fragility of life. It is possible that the sculpture was used during meditations on death or as a ritual prop.
Collector's value
This is a unique object, rarely found on the antiquarian market. Attractive to collectors of curios, ritual and esoteric artifacts and vanitas-type art. It fits well into the niche of "dark aesthetics" and private collections related to the occult and the anthropology of religion.
Aesthetic qualities
The sculpture impresses with its precision execution of anatomical details, balanced expression and natural patina of wood. The combination of the realistic skull with the dynamic, abstract structure of the finial creates a strong visual and narrative tension. Visible traces of chisel and handwork enhance its authenticity.
Application (Utility)
It can be an exhibit in an ethnographic or religious museum, an item in a private collection, a movie or theatrical prop, interior decoration in a symbolic, dark, contemplative style. It is also suitable for use as an educational object in narratives about death iconography, esotericism or monastic culture.
Tree of (un)life
The unusual form of the skull topped by a tree trunk can also be read as a visual metaphor for "memory rooted in death" - the head as a place of consciousness over which something more primordial, unconscious grows. The object is itself reminiscent of the question: what grows from what dies?
Items that spark imagination
If you are fascinated by objects at the intersection of art, ritual and contemplation - discover our selection of sculptures, curios and artifacts with soul.
At the SYBARIS Old Art Gallery, you will find more unique items inspired by the symbolism of death, transience and spiritual transformation.
| Weight | 0,5 kg |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 29 × 12 × 12 cm |
| Type |
Ritual / esoteric sculpture |
| Form |
Skull topped with a stylized structure resembling a tree trunk or twisted talons |
| Materiał |
Dense exotic wood ,Patina |
| Kolorystyka |
Caramel ,Dark amber |
| Technika |
Anatomical details ,Manual modeling ,Wooden sculpture |
| Czas powstania |
18th-19th century (?) |
| Era |
Early Romanticism ,Late Baroque |
| Kraj pochodzenia |
France |
| Autor |
Unknown |
| State of preservation |
Very Good. Natural patina, microcracks, minor traces of inactive woodworm. Stable wood, no loss in texture. |
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