Microscopic Observations Revealed a Layered Organic Structure Consistent with this Type of Keratin Material. Strong LW UV Fluorescence Further Confirms the Identity of this as Hornbill Ivory. Finely Detailed, High Relief, Floral Carving is Typical of the Designs Carved for the Western Market from this Material During the 19th Century. No Evidence of Artificial Coloration was Observed. Minor Damage in the Form of Chipping was Observed on Several of the Carvings Due to the Layered, Brittle Nature of Hornbill Ivory.
Hornbill Ivory rosette 15x magnification. ”Image courtesy of Stone Group Labs”