I know that this small piece is a fragment from an incredibly intricate mixed metal overlay on an antique Asian table, Chinese or Southeast Asian I am not sure. At first, based on the color, I thought it might be hide, but it is definitely metal, though brass or bronze or silver I am not entirely sure; from what I understand the table incorporated all three. I just love the silhouette of these two heads facing in opposite direction, I assume representing a mythological creature, perhaps the heads of a pair of griffin? I think it would be quite an exquisite thing for a jewelry maker to turn into a brooch or pendant, but I'd be content just to find a good spot to set it or prop it to admire.
3 3/4" l x 2 11/16" t with a bit of a curve. Beautifuly aged and in stable, delicate but not fragile condition.
