Stunning antique bas-relief of the Nativity scene in ebonite (also called vulcanite or 'hard rubber'). 
It has a Holy water font in gold painted metal attached at the bottom.
'Gloria in excelsis Deo' is written underneath a depiction of the Infant Jesus in his manger.
Mary is uncovering him and Joseph holds a light so the sheperds can see and greet the newborn.
Two angels are represented at the top of the plaque. 
They are holding a silver coloured metal cross with a crown of thorns. They are looking down at the whole scene. 
Small metal stars are used on the decorative borders on the sides.
It is a fantastic piece like I have rarely seen before, especially at this size.
It measures 32.5 x 27 cm / 12.59 x 10.62 inches.
The plaque is 2.5 cm / 0.98 inches thick on the sides.
It is heavy (2 kilograms).
There is a strong loop at the back so it can be hung on the wall.
The colour is not even. It mostly looks black / very dark brown but some parts have a green tint (especially on the sides) or are lighter.
There are several small scratches or tiny chips but it is in overall good condition.
Some sort ot light crackling sometimes visible around the figures or the sides.
A broken piece was repaired at the top as seen in the close-up photograph. It is not visible from the front.
The metal at the top has some black marks and is tarnished from age.
The gold of the font has faded in places. There are tarnish marks too.
The inside of the font has some large green marks.
The back has signs of wear, scratches and one crack.
A very unusual and beautiful object ready to be hung on the wall!
 
The pictures are part of the description.
 
Import duties and taxes are the buyer's responsibility.
 
Thanks for visiting Cabinet de Merveilles!
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