Bone Inlay Decor Appraisal

Indian Brass and Bone Inlay Horse Sculpture

This is a decorative hand-crafted horse figurine, likely originating from India, featuring a composite construction of wood, brass, and inlaid bone or shell. The horse is depicted in a standing posture and is heavily ornamented with intricate brass wirework and decorative plates that form a harness and saddle. The body is accented with geometric white inlay panels, likely camel bone or mother-of-pearl, set into a dark wood or resin-coated frame. Notable features include a small brass chain draped around the chest and a raised saddle horn. Measuring approximately 6 to 8 inches in height, the piece exhibits moderate wear consistent with age, including tarnishing of the brass elements, a dull patina on the wood/resin surfaces, and visible adhesive residue or grout between the inlay sections. There appear to be minor chips or misalignments in the white inlay pieces, particularly near the front leg. The overall style is typical of mid-20th-century Indian handicraft, specifically echoing folk art traditions of Rajasthan. The craftsmanship is rustic yet detailed, with the focus on the decorative surface rather than anatomical precision.