Carved Ivory Skull 'memento Mori' - Germany - 18th Century

A small, finely carved ivory skull, likely made in Germany in the 18th century. The piece presents a remarkably naturalistic representation of the human skull, with carefully rendered anatomical details such as the sutures, eye sockets, nasal cavity, and maxillary structure. The surface displays the characteristic patina of antique ivory, with a creamy hue, slight age-related craquelure, and natural wear attesting to its age. The lower portion is hollowed out, reminiscent of anatomical study objects or memento mori typical of this period. This small miniature (scale visible in the photograph with fingers) was probably intended for a cabinet of curiosities, for use as a memento mori, or as a study object within the context of the 18th-century interest in anatomy and vanitas.

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