Sensitive Old Low Relief Carving of World Wise Looking Woman loop handle mirror there is no sign there

there is no sign there was ever a top over the shallowly carved out recess

Country Clare

5ʺ x 12" and in very good condition

10 1/2" x 8 1/8"

Sensitive Old Low Relief Carving of World Wise Looking Woman loop handle mirror there is no sign thereI read this figure as a woman, and what first came to my mind when I saw it was Willa Cather's My Antonia, or perhaps a character from Steinbeck, persevering with grace and determination through one trial after another. She looks a bit weary for sure, but to me like quite a force, and I find this carving beautifully tender and nuanced and honest of the sort that might offer a feeling of kinship when things feel pretty tough! 6 13 16" x 5 1 8" x 7 8"