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Barnebys HQ
Brahegatan 10
BOX 5038
114 37 Stockholm
All auctions / Ethnographical / Polished Polychrome Jasper - Oranges and Earthy Tones...
A masterpiece of natural art in earth tones — This lot features a sculpture of remarkable size in Polychrome Jasper, originating from the rich Madagascar deposits. The specimen has been expertly worked into a freeform shape and mirror-polished to enhance the complex color palette and the abstract designs that characterize it. Its sheer presence, coupled with the intrinsic beauty of the mineral, makes it a visually striking object, balancing between a natural history relic and a contemporary artwork. Direct observation of the piece reveals a smooth, fluid surface on which light dances, reflecting a high-quality vitreous luster. The color range is exceptionally rich and harmonious, spanning from deep reds and burnt oranges to warm ochre and brown tones, interrupted by cream, gray, and white bands and areas. The patterns are extraordinarily complex and reminiscent of an abstract landscape or informel painting. One can discern concentric bands, painterly spots, and sinuous lines that intersect, creating a unique visual narrative from every angle. Polychrome 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 range. Its formation is linked to sedimentary or volcanic processes. Silica-rich fluids percolate through preexisting rocks, slowly depositing quartz and incorporating 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 charm with a powerful, refined aesthetics. Each face offers a different perspective, inviting tactile and visual exploration and telling a deep and fascinating geological story. Technical details Name: Polychrome Jasper Classification: Mineral, variety of Chalcedony Provenance: Madagascar Dimensions: 345 x 170 x 125 mm Weight: 2953 g Conditions: Natural, worked into a freeform shape and polished.
Estimate:£254.82
To the auctionView all items fromCatawikiorEthnographical
Estimate:
£254.82
OCT 17 | 10:00 PM
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