Doe and Hope

Description

The generously sized softwood carving in the form of an urn shaped finial with acorn type top section, having a fluted conical body and flat back, the whole with a beautifully dry aged surface and surviving from nineteenth century France.

The condition of the whole is weathered with shrinkage cracks due to changes in temperature and through water collection and freeze, as per the photographs. This aesthetic is of course part of its wonderful charm. She is sturdy though and does not require any and has acquired, through the years, a fantastic dry texture with a limey hue akin to 16thC oak.

The fact that this is flat backed points to it being part of a much larger composition, possibly part of an arcaded frieze, staircase or even part of a galleon ship.

A piece that could be enjoyed inside or out and with its flat back, a good centrepiece for a console, mantelpiece or hall table.