Continental Silver Wax Seal with Art Nouveau Figure and Landscape, Circa 1900

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Continental Silver Wax Seal with Art Nouveau Figure and Landscape, Circa 1900 Stamped . 800 silver with engraved seal "W.G."
… Read more Continental Silver Wax Seal with Art Nouveau Figure and Landscape, Circa 1900 Stamped . 800 silver with engraved seal "W.G."
Dimensions: 2.5" H x 1" W x 0.5" D

A finely executed Continental silver wax seal, richly decorated in repoussé and deeply influenced by the Art Nouveau movement, likely Austrian or German in origin, circa 1900–1920. This sculptural desk object combines classical allegory with the fluid, organic lines characteristic of Jugendstil artistry.

The obverse features a nude youth—possibly a putto or allegorical figure—carrying a pair of elongated oars across his shoulders as he walks through a stylized grove. The figure’s idealized anatomy and gentle movement evoke themes of exploration and vitality, rendered with graceful curvilinear forms and natural detail reminiscent of the Art Nouveau fascination with the human figure in nature. The imagery evokes timeless allegorical themes of exploration, perseverance, or the journey of life—commonly embraced in turn-of-the-century European silverwork.

On the reverse, a windswept tree leans dramatically into a rippling landscape, with rolling clouds and layered textures forming a lyrical backdrop. The tree’s twisting branches and flowing lines are emblematic of the Art Nouveau aesthetic, emphasizing harmony between structure and organic movement.

At the base, the engraved monogram "W.G." is flanked by a small silver hallmark, indicating a .800 purity—typical of Austro-Hungarian or Germanic silver from the early 20th century.

This wax seal is not only functional but also deeply expressive—its symbolic imagery and stylistic elegance make it a superb collectible for lovers of Art Nouveau silver, figural objets de vertu, and finely crafted personal accessories. Ready to display or use. See less