Vintage Hand-Painted Ostrich Egg

I have seen a lot of ostrich eggs, but I love the painting on this one. Two ostriches strolling, one stopping to graze in a field of green and burgundy color. Perhaps autumn is beginning and one of the trees in the background is turning color. There is a playfulness to the painting, light-hearted, light strokes and bright colors. Perhaps the birds represent a sense of freedom. Note the fence is not continued all the way, giving the birds the opportunity to move into the horizon. Each of the birds have their individual focus, yet are traveling companions. Decorated ostrich eggs were traded as luxury items from the Middle East to the Western Mediterranean during the Iron Age (1200-300 BC). The eggs were engraved, painted and occasionally embellished with ivory, precious metals and faience fittings. They were found in elite contexts from Spain to Iraq. Measures 6" high x 3" wide. Condition is very good, with no chips or cracks.