Carved Artifact Appraisal

Carved Bone Implement with Hand Motif

This appears to be a small, elongated implement, likely carved from bone or a similar natural material, possibly ivory. Its overall color is a creamy off-white, consistent with aged bone. The body of the implement is cylindrical and tapers slightly towards both ends. One end features an intricate carving of a clenched human or humanoid hand, with fingers curled into a fist-like shape and an open void where the hand would grasp something. Just below the hand, there are two thin, incised black rings or bands encircling the shaft. The main body of the implement is adorned with a series of small, recessed circular marks, creating a dotted pattern. These dots are individually hand-painted in alternating colors of red, green, and black, suggesting a deliberate decorative motif. The painting appears somewhat worn in places, indicating age and handling. There are also thin, incised lines running lengthwise along the shaft, giving it a fluted or grooved appearance in certain sections. The craftsmanship suggests a folk art or perhaps a utilitarian item with decorative elements. The material exhibits a smooth texture with some natural irregularities that might be grain lines or slight pitting inherent to bone. There are no overt signs of repair, but the overall patina suggests considerable age, potentially late 19th or early 20th century. Its exact function is not immediately clear from the image alone, but its size and hand-carved details suggest it could be a small tool, a decorative 'pick', a ceremonial object, or even part of a larger mechanism.