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All auctions / Ethnographical / Finely Carved Congo Malachite Box - AAA Quality - Luxury...
Congolese Malachite Handmade Box — This elegant decorative box is entirely made of Malachite, a copper carbonate mineral known for its extraordinary veining and vibrant green color. The specimen stands out for the richness of its concentric patterns, which create intricate visual fantasies reminiscent of abstract landscapes or stylized eyes, giving each side of the box a unique and unrepeatable beauty. The green tones range from light emerald to dark bottle green, creating a deep contrast and highlighting the mineral's complex structure. The malachite workmanship requires great skill, given its relative softness and tendency to fracture. This piece demonstrates notable artisanal skill, with smooth surfaces and precise finishes that accentuate the mineral’s natural seric gloss. The malachite has been cut and assembled with care to form a box with a lid, fitted with brass hinges that allow smooth opening and closing, adding a touch of functionality to this object of exquisite decoration. Historically, malachite has been valued since ancient times, used for jewelry, amulets, and ornamental objects. Congo deposits are famous for producing malachite of exceptional quality, with a deep coloration and particularly distinctive patterns, making every piece from this region a sought-after specimen. The formation of these striking banded motifs is the result of layered deposition of the mineral in cavities and fractures of the rock, a geological process that takes millions of years and specific conditions. This craft is not only a functional container, but a true piece of natural art, ideal for storing small treasures or as a refined decorative object on a desk, a shelf, or a table. Its presence adds a touch of discreet luxury and visual interest to any environment, testimony to the infinite beauty and wonders that nature can create. It represents a precious addition for mineral collectors, art lovers, or anyone who appreciates the intrinsic elegance of natural materials. Conditions: The item presents in generally good condition, with the natural integrity of the mineral and the artisanal workmanship intact. Any minor imperfections or color variations should be considered natural characteristics of the mineral and not defects. Final Technical Data: Name: Malachite Box Material: Malachite Workmanship: Hand-carved and polished Origin: Congo Dimensions: 150 mm (height) x 100 mm (width) x 50 mm (depth) Weight: 1112 grams Conditions: Good Lot code: RUA-695 TES-142
Estimate:£318.09
To the auctionView all items fromCatawikiorEthnographical
Estimate:
£318.09
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