Decorative tray - Rare Grand Plateau

Rare grand examination plateau in exotic single-block wood - Sculpted handles "Ammonite and Nautilus fossils" - Cabinet of Curiosities style / Colonial Era (c. 1900-1940)
Description in French:
Exceptional and atypical presentation or examination board in solid hardwood, carved in the solid from a single piece of wood
This large object (52 cm in length)
625 g
features remarkable and elongated proportions, typical of scientific desk accessories, geology laboratory equipment, or cabinet of curiosities pieces from the late 19th century to the early 20th century (colonial period).
The inner base is perfectly flat, designed at the time to hold, sort, examine, or transport instruments or collection specimens (such as fossils, shells, or minerals) safely thanks to the raised edges.
The major artistic signature of this piece lies in its two magnificent terminal handles, finely sculpted in relief in the continuity of the wooden block:
• On the left: A superb representation of a fossil ammonite (or murex) with deep and pronounced radial ribs.
• On the right: A fluid and polished representation of a nautilus (or fossil gastropod of the natice type), highlighting its smooth helicoidal coiling.
Condition:
Good overall authenticity.
The object has been used and bears a beautiful patina of the era.
Note the slight circular damp marks from use at the bottom of the plateau (old traces of bottles or glasses) which attest to its history.
The wood is sound, very stable and shows no structural cracks.
No markings or signatures visible.
Dimensions:
• Total length: 52 cm
• Width: 13.5 cm
• Weight: Robust
A highly decorative piece, ideal for a natural science collector, a connoisseur of folk art, or to elevate a singular interior.
Cabinet of curiosities Ammonite Nautilus Exotic Wood Folk Art Single-Block Sculpture Colonial Era Desk Pencil Case Natural Sciences Geology Fossil Art Nouveau Antique Display