#2930 Pink alabaster egg with a painted bird and berry motif.

2” no chips or cracks. Alabaster, a fine-grained gypsum or calcite, has been used for decorative objects and sculptures for centuries due to its smooth texture and ability to be carved. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, carved alabaster items, including decorative eggs, were popular as souvenirs and home decor, often featuring painted or inlaid details.

These pieces were frequently produced in regions known for alabaster deposits, such as Italy and parts of the Middle East. The pink hue suggests either natural coloration or a staining process applied to the material. The inclusion of painted motifs, like birds and foliage, was common to enhance their aesthetic appeal and mimic more expensive materials.