Manfred Wild Aquamarine & Rock Crystal Dolphin Sculpture, Germany, Late 20th C.

A finely carved aquamarine and rock crystal sculpture of two dolphins by renowned German lapidary artist Manfred Wild, created in Idar-Oberstein, Germany, Late 20th Century.

The sculptural composition depicts a pair of dolphins dynamically positioned above stylized ocean waves. Each dolphin is carved from substantial natural aquamarine, displaying attractive pale to medium blue coloration with the characteristic internal crystalline variations and translucency of the mineral. The bodies are carefully modeled and highly polished, capturing the streamlined anatomy and graceful movement of the animals.

The dolphins are supported above a dramatically carved section of frosted rock crystal, formed as curling and breaking ocean waves. This sculptural wave formation rests upon a thick oval slab of polished natural rock crystal, whose internal inclusions and fissures emphasize the organic character of the stone. 

Small dark inset eyes provide a subtle contrast to the pale aquamarine, while the combination of transparent, translucent, polished, and frosted surfaces demonstrates the sophisticated lapidary techniques for which Idar-Oberstein became internationally celebrated.

Artist: Manfred Wild
Origin: Idar-Oberstein, Germany
Materials: Aquamarine and rock crystal
Subject: Pair of dolphins above ocean waves
Style: Naturalistic / Figural / Gemstone Sculpture
Period: Late 20th Century

Dimensions

Height: 7 in.
Width: 10 in.
Depth: 6 in.