Oceania, Western Solomon Islands, Melanesian Peoples 19th-20th c. Fine carved marble like carving from fossilized clamshell (Tridacna Shell). Symbol of wealth depicting a zoomorphic figure over a large openwork circle. During the late 19th century a group of fine fossilized shell were being used to carve exceptional marble like plaques. Their source only known to the small contingent of Melanesian carvers, the carvings which were in turn worn as symbols of status and sometimes used to adorn structures.

This example with a circular form base and bird like carving to the top similar to a chicken. Interestingly the profile also appears to be a large circular mouth with two eyes. Size 5" W x 9" H on included custom stand, Size 9" H, 10" H on included custom stand

Collected prior to 2008, ex-Lacy Gallery (Vanna & Lee Lacy collection), Los Angeles CA. Lacy Gallery was founded upon six decades of collecting ethnographic and fine art. Lee Lacy was a distinguished Hollywood producer of iconic TV series and commercials.. Collected prior to 2008, ex-Lacy Gallery (Vanna & Lee Lacy collection), Los Angeles CA. Lacy Gallery was founded upon six decades of collecting ethnographic and fine art. Lee Lacy was a distinguished Hollywood producer of iconic TV series and commercials.. Collected prior to 2008, ex-Lacy Gallery (Vanna & Lee Lacy collection), Los Angeles CA. Lacy Gallery was founded upon six decades of collecting ethnographic and fine art. Lee Lacy was a distinguished Hollywood producer of iconic TV series and commercials.