17th Century Carved Sailing Ship's Decoration with Dolphins. The hand carved decoration features two stylized dolphins holding a center plaque (probably originally had a coat of arms). Attached to the dolphin tails are two gilt rosettes, approximately 4 1/2" diameter. The dolphins retain , a considerable amount of their original paint and gold gilt surface. Measures 60" long X approximately 10 1/2" high. Property of a prominent Memphis, Tennessee family.

Condition- For its age, this piece is in amazing condition and looks to be original and unrestored. The decoration is in one piece, but does have losses from the upper portion of one dolphin's mouth. Lower part of plaque has a chip missing. A section of one dolphin's tail, approx. 1 1/2" X 1 1/2", is missing. Weathered surface with paint loss. See photos.