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Wooden sculpture depicting an allegorical vision of Death on horseback, likely from Central Europe, dating to the first half of the 19th century.

The work features a cloaked skeletal figure, with a highly stylized and expressive face, seated on a horse with a nervous, almost suffering expression.

The composition's layout recalls European Symbolist and Decadent imagery, with clear references to the themes of the Danse Macabre, the allegory of Death, and the apocalyptic visions common between the 18th and 19th centuries.

The quality of the carving, executed in the round, is particularly noteworthy, with energetic and deliberately expressionistic workmanship in the surfaces and anatomy. The sculpture retains a particularly striking antique dark patina, highlighting the natural wear on the edges and more exposed parts.

Mounted on an ebonized wooden base.

A visually striking object, rare in its iconography and scenic presence, ideal for collections of Symbolist art, Wunderkammern, memento mori, and European art of the macabre.

Origin: Germany

Measurements:

Total height: 31 cm (12.2")

Sculpture height: 25 cm (9.8")

Base: 24 x 14 cm (9.4" x 5.5")

Good condition, with signs of aging consistent with its age and material.