Baroque High-relief Sculpture "memento Mori" – Late 17th Century

A refined and rare Baroque high-relief wood carving depicting a winged putto (cherub) holding a human skull—a classic and captivating allegory of "Memento Mori" and "Vanitas." With his other hand, the putto rests upon an elegant heraldic shield featuring fine scrollwork decoration. The piece is distinguished by the exceptional quality of the carving, evident in the face's expressive liveliness, the dynamic movement of the body, and the precise anatomical rendering of the skull. The background retains precious traces of the original gold-leaf gilding over a gesso ground, displaying a splendid, authentic craquelure developed over time. The back of the panel reveals characteristic period hand-craftsmanship and includes an antique iron hanging hook along with traces of old inventory labels. It boasts a magnificent antique patina and shows old, fully stabilized woodworm holes that attest to its authenticity. A visually striking collector's piece from the period. Period: Late 17th / Early 18th century (circa 1700) Condition: Excellent condition consistent with age; natural wear to the gilding. Dimensions: Height 21 cm | Width 11 cm | Maximum depth