Vanitas "memento Mori" In Deer Bone, Displayed In Its Glass-fronted Chapel – 19th Century

Vanitas “Memento Mori” in deer bone, presented in its glass-fronted chapel – 19th century.

Rare vanitas sculpture in finely carved deer bone, representing a draped bust surmounted by a human skull. Probably German or Italian work, late 19th century. A typical expression of “Memento Mori” iconography intended to remind us of the fleeting nature of life and the certainty of death.

Description:

The skull, perfectly detailed (teeth, cranial sutures, deep eye sockets), is carved from a segment of deer bone, retaining its natural color. The bust is treated as a pseudo-antique bust, with crossed drapery and a small cross in relief on the right shoulder.
Original turned base in blackened wood, split in the piece (seen but stable).

Presented in its patinated metal display chapel with molded decoration, surmounted by a Latin cross.
The four sides are made of high-quality beveled glass, the front door opening to access the sculpture.

Entirely original period piece (not a modern reproduction).

Dimensions:

Total height of chapel: 25 cm x Width: 10 cm x Depth: 10 cm.
Height of the sculpture alone: 12 cm.

Condition:

Beveled glass in good condition, some signs of wear. Even patina on the metal structure. Crack on the wooden base (visible in photos), without structural weakness.

A typical curiosity cabinet item combining funerary art, Christian symbolism, and animal sculpture. An austere, authentic piece, not "fantasy Gothic," but a genuine antique work.

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