

All auctions / Ethnographical / Polished Polychrome Jasper - Oranges and Earthy Tones...

Polished Polychrome Jasper - Oranges and Earthy Tones...

A masterpiece of natural art with earth-toned colors — This lot features a sculpture of remarkable size in Multicolor Jasper, originating from the rich deposits of Madagascar. The specimen has been skillfully worked into a freeform shape and mirror-polished to enhance the complex color palette and the abstract designs that characterize it. Its imposing presence, combined with the intrinsic beauty of the mineral, makes it a visually striking object, halfway between a natural history relic and a work of contemporary art. Direct observation of the piece reveals a smooth, fluid surface on which light dances, reflecting a high-quality glassy luster. The color range is exceptionally rich and harmonious, spanning from deep reds and burnt oranges to warm ochre and brown tones, interrupted by bands and areas of cream, gray, and white. The patterns are extraordinarily complex and resemble an abstract landscape or informel painting. Concentric bands, “painterly” spots, and sinuous lines intersect, creating a unique visual narrative from every angle. Multicolor Jasper is a variety of chalcedony, a microcrystalline form of quartz, whose peculiarity lies in the abundance of inclusions, mainly iron oxides and hydroxides, which determine its wide color palette. Its formation is linked to sedimentary or volcanic processes. Silica-rich fluids percolate through preexisting rocks, slowly depositing quartz and incorporating the surrounding minerals. Variations in the chemical composition of the water and the pressure and temperature conditions over millions of years have given rise to these unique, unrepeatable patterns, true “fossils” of ancient geological processes. Madagascar is one of the most celebrated locations for the quality and aesthetic variety of its jaspers. As a collectible or decorative element, this specimen stands out for its size and the quality of workmanship, which transforms a rough stone into a natural sculpture. It is a piece that magnificently dialogues with design environments, professional studios, or libraries, where it can be displayed as a focal point. Its nature as a “mineral painting” makes it an ideal candidate for a modern Wunderkammer, combining scientific fascination with a powerful and refined aesthetics. Each face offers a different perspective, inviting tactile and visual exploration and telling a deep, fascinating geological story. Technical details Name: Multicolor Jasper Classification: Mineral, variety of Chalcedony Provenance: Madagascar Dimensions: 345 x 170 x 125 mm Weight: 2953 g Conditions: Natural, shaped freeform and polished.
Estimate:£251.27
To the auctionView all items fromCatawikiorEthnographical
Estimate:
£251.27
Similar items
Auction results for similar items
Upcoming auctions


OCT 27 | 4:00 PM
Jewellery and Watches
Bring your auction to collectors worldwide!
Get listed now








