Horn Art Appraisal

Carved Ox Horn with Owl Motif

This appears to be a decorative carving made from an ox or similar bovine horn, mounted on a wooden base. The horn itself retains its natural dark, glossy black and dark brown coloration, with sections skillfully carved away to reveal lighter, underlying material, creating a striking contrast. The carving depicts a large, intricately detailed owl in flight or perched, with its wings spread upwards, showcasing fine feather detailing through shallow relief carving and etched lines. Its eyes are circular and dark, contributing to a watchful expression. Below the large owl, on the side of the horn, is a smaller owl perched on a branch with leaves, rendered in similar relief carving, indicating a family or juvenile scene. The texture of the carved areas is matte and lighter, contrasting with the polished, darker background of the natural horn. The overall shape of the horn is natural and curved, with the carving expertly following its organic form. The horn is mounted on a carved wooden base, likely made of a light-colored wood such as oak or sycamore, finished with a clear varnish, providing stability and elevating the sculpture. The base has a smooth, integrated appearance with the horn, suggesting it was custom-made for this piece. There are no immediately visible signs of damage, cracks, or significant wear, suggesting good preservation or relatively recent creation. The craftsmanship appears to be of good quality, with attention to detail in the owl's feathers and facial features. This piece likely dates from the mid-20th century to contemporary, given the style and apparent condition, making it a decorative art object rather than an ancient artifact. Its unique combination of natural material and detailed animal carving makes it a distinctive display item.