Antique Victorian 18k Gold Mano Cornuto Charm, Bone Horned Hand Figa Amulet, Italian Evil Eye Talisman, Articulated Lucky Pendant

An exceptional and increasingly scarce late Victorian Mano Cornuto charm, hand carved from bone and fitted with an unusually elaborate articulated gold cap creating a graceful movement rarely found on examples of this type.

Dating from the late 1800s and sourced from a private Italian collection, this remarkable talisman embodies centuries of Mediterranean folklore. The Mano Cornuto (Horned Hand), or Sign of the Horns, has been worn since Roman times to ward off the malocchio (evil eye), repel misfortune and attract protection, strength and good fortune.

The beautifully articulated cap has been acid tested as 18k gold (unmarked). One of the extended fingers is finished with a 14k gold tip, also acid tested, which was almost certainly added at a later date to replace or reinforce an original broken finger. Such sympathetic restorations are frequently encountered on antique mano charms, whose delicate projecting fingers were especially vulnerable to damage. Far from diminishing its appeal, this repair enhances the charm's authenticity, adding another fascinating chapter to its long and well-travelled history.

The carved bone displays the gentle age lines and natural patina expected of a treasured antique, giving the charm warmth, authenticity and character.

It measures approximately  3.5 cm (including the bail) and weighing approximately 1.6 g, it is beautifully detailed and makes a wonderfully wearable collector's piece. 

Please study the photographs carefully, as they form part of the description. The chain shown is for display purposes only.

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1638A