A rare hand-carved bone signal whistle, measuring 5.25 inches, featuring a hand-turned silver collar with intricate wiggle-work decoration and set with a green gemstone cabochon. Likely used as a signal whistle, this piece combines functional purpose with the artistry of late 19th-century folk craftsmanship.
Material: Bone, silver, green gem cabochon
Length: 5.25 inches
Date: Circa late 19th century
Condition: Excellent antique condition; natural patina on bone, silver mount with minor age wear, gemstone intact.
Design / Craftsmanship:
Hand-carved and turned bone body with smooth finish
Silver collar with detailed wiggle-work
Green cabochon set in silver
Functional mouthpiece, likely designed for audible signaling
Provenance / Use: Probably a signal or communication whistle, while also serving as a decorative or personal object, making it highly collectible as folk art and historical artifact.
Historical Notes:
Bone whistles of this type were often personal signal instruments, elevated with bespoke metalwork and gemstone decoration. The combination of hand-carved bone, silver wiggle-work, and cabochon gemstone reflects late 19th-century craftsmanship and the dual function of practicality and artistry.
A rare hand-carved bone signal whistle, measuring 5.25 inches, featuring a hand-turned silver collar with intricate wiggle-work decoration and set with a green gemstone cabochon. Likely used as a signal whistle, this piece combines functional purpose with the artistry of late 19th-century folk craftsmanship.
Material: Bone, silver, green gem cabochon
Length: 5.25 inches
Date: Circa late 19th century
Condition: Excellent antique condition; natural patina on bone, silver mount with minor age wear, gemstone intact.
Design / Craftsmanship:
Hand-carved and turned bone body with smooth finish
Silver collar with detailed wiggle-work
Green cabochon set in silver
Functional mouthpiece, likely designed for audible signaling
Provenance / Use: Probably a signal or communication whistle, while also serving as a decorative or personal object, making it highly collectible as folk art and historical artifact.
Historical Notes:
Bone whistles of this type were often personal signal instruments, elevated with bespoke metalwork and gemstone decoration. The combination of hand-carved bone, silver wiggle-work, and cabochon gemstone reflects late 19th-century craftsmanship and the dual function of practicality and artistry.
