This rare antique set features two carved pumpkins made from Lignum Vitae, a highly sought-after material. They are Victorian and the originality of these ornaments make them a valuable addition to any collection. The set is perfect for those interested in fruit ornaments and treen, and the attention to detail is evident in the intricate carvings of the pumpkins.
The age of these ornaments is estimated to be between 1850-1899, adding to their uniqueness and historical significance. Made in a sub-type of treen and classified as antique, this set is an original and authentic addition to any woodenware collection.
In good condition commensurate with age
Height approx 10cm
Lignum Vitae
Lignum Vitae, a dense and heavy wood with a rich history, played a prominent role in the 18th and 19th-century decorative arts. Known for its durability and natural beauty, Lignum Vitae was highly prized by artisans and craftsmen during this period.
Originating from the Caribbean, Lignum Vitae earned the distinction of being the national wood of Jamaica. Its name, which translates to “wood of life” in Latin, speaks to its reputation as a valuable and indispensable material.
In the decorative arts, Lignum Vitae was used in various applications, particularly in fine woodworking and intricate carvings. The wood’s tight grain and natural oils contributed to its exceptional hardness and resistance to decay, making it a preferred choice for creating durable furniture, ornamental objects, and architectural details.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, Lignum Vitae was especially popular for crafting high-quality wooden bearings for machinery and ship parts. Due to its self-lubricating properties, it proved invaluable in industrial settings, reducing friction and ensuring smooth operation in the moving parts of engines and equipment.
Beyond its functional applications, Lignum Vitae was admired for its unique coloration, which ranged from olive-green to deep brown, often showcasing striking variations in grain patterns. These characteristics made the wood particularly attractive for creating decorative inlays and veneers, enhancing the beauty of furniture and wooden artifacts.
The strength and natural allure of Lignum Vitae inspired its extensive use in architectural elements, including columns, balusters, and railings. Its use in the construction of handrails for staircases and banisters was especially common, adding a touch of elegance to both domestic and public spaces.
Despite its outstanding properties, the limited availability of Lignum Vitae eventually led to a decline in its use as the 19th century progressed. The slow growth rate of the tree and the depletion of natural resources made the wood rarer and more expensive.
Today, Lignum Vitae remains a treasured material, sought after by collectors and artisans for its historical significance and distinctive attributes. It continues to be celebrated as the national wood of Jamaica and cherished for its contributions to the decorative arts during the 18th and 19th centuries.
If you would like to PURCHASE THIS ITEM NOW I am open to reasonable offers to end the auction early before the first bid is placed ~ once a bid is placed I can no longer except offers so please make your offer as soon as possible
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I am not an antique/vintage expert and sell things I have accumulated over the pasts years also please be aware this is an antique or vintage item and may show signs wear and tear commensurate with age. If you require perfect then please consider buying reproduction
I ALWAYS PACK EXTREMELY CAREFULLY IN LIGHTWEIGHT STRONG RECYCLED BOXES I re-use packaging and recycle cardboard, paper, boxes, polystyrene, plastic, envelopes and bubble wrap whenever possible to reduce waste and lessen the impact on the environment
UNFORTUNATELY SOME SHIPPING WORKERS TREAT THEM LIKE FOOTBALLS
SO I NOW HAVE TO ADVISE THAT COLLECTION IS THE BEST OPTION AS CERAMICS AND GLASS CANNOT BE INSURED AGAINST DAMAGE SO SHIPPING WOULD BE AT YOUR RISK.
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Please remember, I mainly sell antique, vintage, and collectable items, and as such, some will have small imperfections, for example, scratches and marks, dirt and tarnish, and occasionally damage or though it should have been mentioned, and as such, the imperfections are not really damage but just part of the ageing process
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