19th Century Angel Sculpture Signed Mattei

19th Century Angel Sculpture Signed Mattei, Antique Meerschaum Sea Foam Carving, French Religious Art Figurine, Religious gift

A celestial masterpiece carved in sea foam stone…
This exquisite 19th-century angel sculpture, delicately carved from sea foam (also known as sepiolite), captures the timeless serenity of an archangel in prayer.
Signed MATTEI, this rare piece combines the grace of sacred art with the refinement of antique French craftsmanship.

Its soft ivory tone and intricate details — from the finely feathered wings to the peaceful expression — make it a truly moving work of devotion and artistry. Each fold of the robe, each line of the face, reveals the touch of an inspired sculptor.

🖼️ Details

Artist / Signature: Mattei
Material: Sea foam stone (écume de mer / sepiolite)
Origin: France
Period: 19th century (c. 1880–1900)
Subject: Archangel / Angel in prayer

Weight: 200 g
Height: 7.28 in (18.5 cm)
Width: 3.46 in (8.8 cm)
Depth: 1.97 in (5 cm)

Condition:
Beautiful antique condition with a soft natural patina. Some light wear consistent with age, but no major chips or cracks. Please view all photos carefully—they are part of the description.

✨ Story & provenance

The signature MATTEI likely refers to Louis Octave Mattei (1877–1918), a talented French sculptor and medalist trained under Georges Tonnelier, who exhibited at the Salon des Artistes Français in Paris from 1904 to 1914.
His work reflects a balance of spiritual symbolism and Art Nouveau influence, often found in small decorative bronzes and religious figures of the early 20th century.

This angel, however, carved in the rare and delicate écume de mer, is a unique expression of devotion — perhaps a private commission or a study piece by the artist.

Each curve and texture of the sculpture seems to carry a whisper of faith and light, making it more than an object: it’s a guardian of peace from another century.

🎯 Perfect for:

Collectors of religious art and antique sculpture
Lovers of French 19th-century craftsmanship
Interior designers seeking a refined spiritual accent
A meaningful gift symbolizing protection and serenity

💡 Why you’ll love it

✔️ Rare 19th-century religious sculpture
✔️ Signed by Mattei – collectible and historic
✔️ Carved in sea foam – an uncommon and poetic material
✔️ Ideal for display on altar, mantel, or bookshelf
✔️ Authentic French sacred art full of emotion and detail

📦 Shipping & Packaging

Secure worldwide shipping 🌍
Packed with professional protective materials
Tracking number included
Combined shipping available – contact me for a quote