Australian three piece emu egg garniture inkwell set wonderful example of a 19th century three piece set, the central section featuring a horizontal mounted emu egg carved with emu and kangaroo in map of Australia, sitting on a tree with an emu finial and a kangaroo and emu figures to the back. The sides fitted with two glass lidded inkwells and the front with a calligraphy pen (from Czech republic, later addition). This is accompanied by two emu egg garnitures one carved with a lyre bird and the other with a kangaroo, both supported by a leafy silver plated base. Condition: good, some tarnish and wear such as small bends to silver plate and some very light wear to eggs (no visible cracks or holes), of central section height 29 cm width 28 cm, depth 13 cm height of garniture 21 cm
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- Lyre Motif - The lyre motif is an ancient decorative design that is believed to have originated in ancient Greece, where the lyre was a popular musical instrument. The lyre itself was often decorated with ornate carvings and designs, including the iconic lyre motif.
In ancient Greek mythology, the lyre was associated with the god Apollo, who was the patron of music and the arts. The lyre was said to have been invented by the god Hermes, who presented it to Apollo as a gift. As a result, the lyre became a symbol of creativity, inspiration, and artistic expression.
The lyre motif typically features a curved or S-shaped body, with strings extending upwards from the base. The motif was often used in architectural decoration, as well as on pottery, jewellery, and other decorative objects.
- Finial - An architectural decoration, found on the upper parts of of an object. On furniture they are usually found on pediments, canopies and shelf supports. On smaller ceramic or silver items, such as spoons, they may decorate the top of the item itself, or the lid or cover where they provide a useful handle for removal.
Finials have a variety of shapes and forms. They may be urn-shaped, baluster shaped round or spiral, but usually taper into an upper point. Many real life shapes may also be used as finials, such as pineapples, berries, pinecones, buds, lotus and acorns. Sometimes animals such as a lion are depicted, or fish and dolphins.
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