Mid-Century Bone and Mixed Metal Inlay Floral Wood Wall Plaque

This is a rectangular horizontal wall plaque featuring an intricate, mixed-media floral motif. The base is a dark-stained wood panel, possibly teak or walnut, showcasing a rich, deep grain. The artwork utilizes several inlay materials: carved pieces of bone or mother-of-pearl for the flower petals and decorative leaf border, alongside thin wires of brass or copper for the stems and vase outlines. The flower centers appear to be inlaid with polished stone or abalone shell, creating a shimmering effect. The composition consists of six stylized floral arrangements emerging from small, copper-toned inlaid vases. A decorative border alternates between circular metal discs and carved teardrop-shaped bone accents. Construction suggests a mid-20th-century origin, likely 1960s or 1970s, characteristic of decorative arts from Southeast Asia or India. Hand-assembled quality is evident in the slight variations of the petal shapes and the placement of the wire stems. Visible condition is excellent with no major cracks or missing inlay pieces, though a fine aged patina is present on the metal surfaces, adding to its vintage character. The craftsmanship demonstrates high attention to detail, specifically in the delicate curvature of the wirework and the symmetrical balance of the 17 distinct flower heads.

I have virtually examined this Mid-Century mixed-media wall plaque. The piece reflects a high level of craftsmanship consistent with mid-20th-century decorative arts, specifically referencing Anglo-Indian or Southeast Asian craft traditions from the 1960s. The integration of organic bone, iridescent shell, and fine metal wire inlay into a dark wood substrate creates a sophisticated aesthetic. Based on the provided images, the condition appears excellent; the wood shows no signs of warping or splitting, and the metal patina is uniform and desirable. The market for mid-century brutalist and global folk-art decor remains stable, with high demand for pieces that balance architectural geometry with organic materials. Comparables for similar large-scale wood and metal work typically sell in specialized vintage galleries for upwards of $700, while general auction results for anonymous craft pieces range from $300 to $500. The specific complexity of the 17 flower heads and the inclusion of bone elements elevate this piece toward the higher end of that range. However, a remote visual appraisal carries significant limitations. I cannot definitively verify if the white elements are bovine bone, resin, or mother-of-pearl without tactile inspection. An in-person examination is required to verify the 'snap' of the wire inlay to ensure no lifting is occurring, which would drastically decrease Value. Authentication would be strengthened by provenance documentation (export marks or manufacturer tags) and a physical search for a signature or workshop brand on the reverse. Scientific testing, such as a localized heat test, would confirm the material composition of the inlay.