Handle to Betel nut Crusher

Lombok, Indonesia
19th Century

Carved from Buffalo horn with a wonderful smooth patina, this Lombok handle is an excellent example. The beautifully rendered image is of a bird feeding on a snake. The bird has finely carved wings that tightly flank the sides of the body and a long neck that extends into a mouth that is grasping the snake. The surface on the brass extension speaks to the age of this piece. The brass has a depth to the patina that can only be acquired with age.

This handle stands 4.75 inches tall.

SOLD / IN 7-8-09