The first image is a display image. The following photos show the actual item you will receive.

A beautiful and unusual antique miniature wax seal, believed to date from the 19th century, featuring a rich translucent red turned handle, ornate aged metal mount and an engraved bird intaglio matrix to the base.

The small proportions and decorative construction give this piece considerable character. The red handle has an attractive deep carnelian-style appearance, while the naturally darkened metal mount features raised decorative detailing.

The circular matrix is engraved with a spread-wing bird motif, designed to produce the image when impressed into sealing wax.

A fascinating survivor that would make an excellent addition to a collection of antique seals, writing accessories, desk antiques, intaglios or 19th-century curiosities.

✔ Antique miniature wax / desk seal
✔ Believed 19th century – Georgian/Victorian era
✔ Deep translucent red glass handle
✔ Turned baluster-style form
✔ Ornate aged metal mount
✔ Engraved bird intaglio matrix
✔ Approx. 4 cm overall length – please see ruler photograph
✔ Attractive original age and patina
✔ Unusual small antique collectable

Please note: The red handle is described as glass/carnelian-style based on appearance. The metal mount has not been tested for precious-metal content and no clearly identifiable hallmark has been found, so it is not being sold as silver.

Condition: Antique condition with age-related wear, surface marks, tarnishing/patination and general signs of age and previous use. These have been retained rather than aggressively cleaned or polished. The red handle presents particularly attractively.

Please study all photographs carefully as they show the actual item you will receive and form an important part of the description.

A particularly charming little piece of antique writing history with a striking colour and intriguing engraved seal.

Sensible offers welcome – feel free to send one over.

Other vintage, antique, collectable and unusual items are available in my store, with new listings added regularly.