19th Century Memento Mori Janus Head Carved Bone Skull

A striking and rare piece of late 19th-century mortality art.

This hand-carved memento mori "Janus" head beautifully captures the classical dichotomy of life and death.
Historically utilized as objects of meditation or high-end curiosities, this carving features a serene, closed-eyed living face on one side that seamlessly transitions into a stark, anatomically stylized skull on the other. The craftsman took great care in detailing the piece, noting the cranial suture lines and the dramatic hollowing of the skull's eye socket.
This artifact is carved from genuine antique bovine bone (strictly non-ivory). The natural cancellous (spongy) marrow core is visible at the base of the piece, confirming its organic animal origin. Furthermore, the base retains deep, uncleaned traces of authentic green verdigris (copper oxidation), indicating it was historically mounted on a brass or copper fixture for many decades.
To elevate its presentation, the carving is now mounted on a custom-fitted, classical black wooden column pedestal, transforming it into a museum-quality display piece perfect for a high-end Wunderkammer or cabinet of curiosities.

Material: 
Carved Bovine Bone (Non-Ivory), Wood (Stand)
Era: Estimated Late 19th Century
Origin: Attributed to Germany / Central Europe
Description

Dimensions & Weight:
Height of Bone Carving: 4 cm
Width of Bone Carving: 2.5 cm
Total Height (on pedestal): 11 cm
Total Weight (including pedestal): 115 g

Condition Report:
Excellent antique condition. The bone possesses a gorgeous, warm, and creamy natural patina developed over a century of handling and air exposure. There are no modern touch-ups, and the historical verdigris at the mounting point has been intentionally preserved to maintain its historical integrity. Please review all photos closely as they are part of the description.