Tigers Eye Brooch Appraisal

Carved Onyx or Tiger's Eye Alabaster Tiger Sculpture

This is a hand-carved animal sculpture depicting a prowling tiger or stylized big cat, mounted on an integral rectangular stone base. The piece is crafted from a banded decorative stone, likely Mexican onyx, calcite, or a variety of banded alabaster, featuring a rich palette of caramel, honey-brown, and creamy white tones. The stone's natural striations are strategically utilized to mimic the striped patterns of a tiger. The sculpture shows a dynamic forward-leaning pose with an open mouth, displaying carved teeth and a roaring expression. In terms of construction, the figure appears to be a separate carving joined to a chiseled-edge base with similar banding. The carving style is somewhat folk-art or mid-century souvenir in nature, typical of stone workshops in regions like Mexico or Italy from the mid-to-late 20th century (circa 1950s-1970s). The surface has been polished to a high gloss, though there are visible natural fissures and some minor pitting inherent to the stone material. Condition appears generally good with no major structural fractures, although there is slight chipping or roughness visible on the lower edges of the base and around the tail area, possibly representing age-related wear or original crafting imperfections. No maker's marks or signatures are visible from this angle.