European, France, Baroque Period, ca. 17th century CE. An opulent Corinthian capital to a column, interestingly carved from walnut wood to boast an ornate design. Presenting a circular base that rises to a cuboid top, the elaborate architectural element features 4 cherubs - 1 in each corner of the echinus - each standing upon a detailed vegetal motif and displaying pudgy bodies with round faces. A garland with carefully carved leaves and a central rosette hangs between the cherubs atop a dotted ground, while volute motifs spiral just above the head of each angelic child. Below this, the necking boasts the heads of 4 gargoyles or grotesques that gaze outward from beady eyes beneath thick, narrowed brows flanked by pointed ears, each monstrous visage separated by a delicate acanthus design. Additionally, the abacus is embellished 2 horizontal registers of a tongue pattern separated by a smooth, central band. Size: 8.9" W x 6.8" H (22.6 cm x 17.3 cm)

Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection; ex-Alison Barker collection, United Kingdom, 1951 to 2021

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#171617

Missing 3 outward spirals at top of cherubs' heads. Losses to abacus with repair and restoration. Abacus repaired and restored with slate and pottery. Some stable fissures as well as nicks, chips, and abrasions. Some old insect holes in areas. Otherwise, nice with great remaining detail and lovely patina.