Rare antique Victorian era bronze figural wax seal desk stamp. The hand itself is elegant, with long slender fingers, bejeweled with a ring on the index finger and ornate bracelet resembling a snake serpent wrapped around the wrist. Finished with a matrix with intricate monogram of interlaced initials SH or HS, the H in this case having an additional bar across. This is actually the letter Ħ which is a letter H within the Maltese alphabet. In overall good antique condition with general wear/surface marks commensurate with age and use. Hands were popular symbols during the sentimental Victorian era, made popular by the Queen herself, often symbolic of loyalty, strength, romance, fidelity, generosity, hospitality and stability. The hand is the tool of tools. It represents strength, power and protection. Historically, the hand has been and continues to be symbolic of greeting and friendship. For Victoria the snake embodied eternal love, and promised her a true 'happily ever after'. Snake jewellery reached its peak in the 1840's representing love, wisdom, and eternity. It was depicted on a plethora of jewellery including, rings bracelets, brooches, and necklaces.