Vintage Onyx and Gilded Metal Rose Sculptural Objet d'Art
Decorative Ornament / Desk Sculpture · Yellow gold-toned wash / Gilded base metal
Purity: Non-solid; gold-toned plating/finish. No precious metal hallmarks are visible, suggesting it is a base metal with a brass or gold-colored wash.
Type
Decorative Ornament / Desk Sculpture
Purity
Non-solid; gold-toned plating/finish. No precious metal hallmarks are visible, suggesting it is a base metal with a brass or gold-colored wash.
Gold Type
Yellow gold-toned wash / Gilded base metal
Weight
350 - 500 grams including stone base
Description
An elegant mid-century decorative piece featuring a cast metal rose stem centered within a slim vertical oval frame. The composition is mounted upon two slabs of genuine translucent onyx, featuring a polished oval disc and a rough-hewn base that captures a classic retro-luxury aesthetic.
Key Features
Contrast between organic raw stone base and geometric oval frame; symbolic rose element; original foil identification label.
Color & Finish
Dull yellow-gold/bronze patina with matte and oxidised finish on the rose; brushed metallic finish on the surrounding hoop.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Labeled 'ONYX VERITABLE' on a gold foil sticker, indicating genuine onyx stone. No metal fineness stamps or assay marks observed.
Dimensions Estimate
Height: 6-7 inches; Width: 4 inches; Base: 5 inches
Gemstones & Inlays
Natural Onyx (translucent banded calcite/marble type) utilized as a carved oval backdrop and a raw-edged rustic base.
Clasp & Closure
Fixed structural joint; non-applicable for jewelry wear.
Chain & Links
N/A; solid metal vertical hoop and cast sculptural rose.
Craftsmanship Details
Assembled construction; metal components are likely cast alloy with a heat-applied gold-toned finish; onyx is machine-cut and polished.
Authentication Indicators
Foil label confirms stone identity; lack of stamps indicates item is decorative 'costume' home decor rather than investment gold.
Origin & Maker
Likely French or Italian origin based on 'Veritable' (French for 'Real') labeling; likely a boutique giftware manufacturer.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern to Retro (approx. 1960s-1970s) souvenir or giftware style.
Age Estimate
Circa 1970s; evidenced by the typography on the foil label and the use of raw-slab onyx bases popular in that era.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 20th-century trend of combining natural mineral specimens with metalwork to create domestic art pieces for the burgeoning middle class.
Condition Notes
Good vintage condition; visible oxidation/patina on the metal rose; minor dust accumulation; stone base appears intact with natural fissures.
Value Estimate
Retail/Market Value: $40 - $85 USD. Value is based on decorative appeal and vintage charm rather than gold content.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft, dry microfiber cloth. Avoid water on the metal to prevent further oxidation; use a damp cloth only on the onyx surfaces.
Similar Items
Electroformed real roses dipped in 24K gold; Italian alabaster bookends; Gilded Tiffin glass ornaments.
Interesting Facts
Items like this were popular as 'status' desk accessories in the 1970s, often sold in high-end department stores like Neiman Marcus or Harrods.