Hand carved · Tamarind wood

Skull & Octopus

A cephalopod memento mori, carved in the round

A finely hand-carved skull entwined by an octopus, sculpted in tamarind wood.

The cephalopod grips the cranium from above, its mantle resting on the crown while the tentacles wrap down over the brow and around the eye sockets. Every sucker is individually carved along the underside of each arm, creating a dense stippled texture that contrasts with the smooth polished surface of the skull.

The anatomical detail is precise: orbital cavities, nasal aperture, cheekbones and dentition are all rendered. Fully carved in the round and finished on all sides, including the reverse.

Specimen record
Height 5.8 cm (2.3 in)
Width 3.5 cm (1.4 in)
Depth 4 cm (1.6 in)
Material Carved tamarind wood
Condition Good. No breaks or repairs. Natural open grain visible inside the cavities.
Period Contemporary carving

A striking piece for a cabinet of curiosities, a desk, or any dark interior.

Sold as seen — photos form part of the description.
Carefully packaged in a double box and shipped with tracking.
Other carvings from the same collection available.