Large Celluloid Figa with 9K Gold Cap and 14K Gold Bail

Circa the 1920’s, this celluloid Figa is beautifully carved with 9k gold detailing and a 14k gold bail. The celluloid ranges in color from a tannish ivory to a rich reddish brown, and the composite has a translucent quality that makes it appear to glow from within. The fingers are articulated and each fingernail is delineated in gold, typically only seen in antique Figa pieces like this one, which were carved with a superior level of attention to detail. The hand has gold strapping around the wrist for a bracelet and the piece ends with a gold cap that  is flush against the celluloid and hugs it nicely.

The Figa is an ancient talisman. The clenched fist with a thumb extended between two fingers is a symbol for femininity in many cultures. Most notoriously, the Figa is worn as a good luck talisman in Brazil. It is said to store up luck and offer protection from the Evil Eye. The tradition dates back to the Etruscan Era, where Figa was symbolic of female genitalia.

The pendant measures 1 7/8” x 1/4”. It has 5 mm bail. It weighs 4.3 grams. Unmarked, the cap tests as 9k gold and the bail tests as 14k gold.

Pictured here with a similar smaller Figa also available in our shop.