18th century Italian hand-carved and gilded eagle on a cut phantom calcite crystal base. The missing wing of the eagle has been replicated with a coordinating calcite crystal cluster in a matrix of sphalerite. 

This fragment artifact is originally from a historical church in Italy. While the eagle is often a symbol of spiritual insight, protection, and divine strength, it is also the traditional symbol of Saint John the Evangelist. 

The calcite crystal cluster with sphalerite is from Elmwood Mine in Tennessee. It is an example of the world’s finest crystallized calcite. With the unusual formation of sphalerite, it is unequaled by those from any other part of the world (featured in American Mineral Treasures, pg. 337).

The Italian hand-carved bird and crystals are joined together creating an organic and historical yet contemporary, sculptural piece.