Pair Of Large Wall Consoles In Carved And Gilded Wood, Early 18th Century.

This pair of wall brackets, also known as wall-mounted brackets, is composed of large, sculpted, cascading elements decorated with scrolls, flowers, and foliage, rendered with deep and highly sculpted detail, giving the whole a remarkable decorative presence. Their substantial size sets them apart from the wall brackets typically found elsewhere, which are generally smaller. This large scale, relatively rare, reinforces their architectural character, especially since this is a true pair, designed to be displayed together. These sculptures originally served as architectural elements, intended to be integrated into a structured interior design (woodwork, moldings, frames), and were later transformed into wall brackets by the addition of wooden tops painted to imitate marble. This coherent adaptation allows for a functional presentation today while preserving the ornamental power of the sculpted elements. It can be observed that these two consoles were originally positioned on either side of a passageway or central feature. The left side of the left console and the right side of the right console are not gilded, indicating that these parts were not intended to be seen. This deliberate economy of plaster and gold leaf, a common practice in early decorative architecture, confirms their architectural origin and fits perfectly within the customs of the early 18th century. The carved and gilded wood, made of softwood, retains its original gilding, now finely patinated. Wear, small losses, cracks, rubbing, and old damage are visible on the carvings, particularly on the reliefs and projecting parts, revealing the wood and the wood underneath in places. These alterations, clearly visible in the detail photographs, are consistent with the age of the pieces, without any heavy restoration or alterations that would conceal their antiquity, and do not detract from either the solidity or the aesthetic appeal of the consoles. Based on their typology, the type of wood, the vigor of the carving, and the decorative vocabulary employed, these consoles can be attributed to work from the south of France or Italy and date from the early 18th century. They are ideally suited for display as a pair, on either side of a mirror, overmantel mirror, fireplace, or architectural feature, and can hold vases, porcelain, or decorative objects. Dimensions: Height: 59 cm Width: 41 cm Depth: 21 cm