Large 19th Century French Baroque Gilt Pedestal

Description

An exquisite and most unique French 19th century paint decorated parcel gilt pedestal column with beautiful patina.

Impressive in size, … more An exquisite and most unique French 19th century paint decorated parcel gilt pedestal column with beautiful patina.

Impressive in size, with substantial proportions, excellent craftsmanship and quality, this refined pedestal column is crafted from sumptuous materials and has an elegant and unusual shape, with an octagonal form, curving, voluptuous lines, shapely bombe silhouette, architectural, lavishly decorated in a luxurious yet neutral color palette, painted Provincial light green and cream, patinated, distressed, chippy paint finish, richly gilded accents, recessed panel sides garnished with central deep relief adornments of grotesque masks, florals, ribbons and geometric motifs, hand carved bands of ornamental molding and scrolled acanthus leaf running ornamentation. Finished on all sides, the back of the pedestal is without decoration. Rolling, resting on high quality inset ball style casters.

This charming European antique, circa 1880, has a wonderful shape and patina, which will go well with nearly any style or art. And with a distinctive sculptural look, a mix of the design elements texture, depth, form, space, and color, this sophisticated example is sure to standout.

Pedestals such as this can be used in a variety of ways throughout a home. They can serve as a focal point in the room, fill a vacant corner, somewhat utilitarian as a stand to display a modern sculpture, antique statue, or other decorative art, even as a massive plinth for a monumental planter.

It could be used as standalone piece but would also make the perfect stand upon which to display a very large vase, urn, fine sculpture or other decorative object.

This jewel would make for a great centre table or stunning entry statement piece, using the platform top alone or using it as a base, placing on a large circular marble or glass top.

Dimensions: (approx)
38" High, 25" Wide, 25" Deep
Top: 13" x 13"

Provenance:
Acquired from the highly curated contents of antique dealers, Ed and Jane Grant, who retired after four decades in the industry. The couple supplied both their Washington metro based antique shop, Grant Antiques, and their very fine quality Connecticut showcase, E.J. Grant Antiques, with domestic and imported pieces. World travelers who especially loved European antiques, sourced their merchandise during their frequent buying trips to Europe and Asia and included purchases originating in France, the British Isles, Italy, Spain, and beyond.

"We have never been content with our established route. England is our first and favorite country and furniture. Then we discovered France. Then Holland and Belgium. On to Italy, Spain, then Scandinavia and later China. As always, bits and pieces from the U.S.," explains Jane in her memoirs of their 40 years as antiques dealers.

Condition Report:
Very good antique condition. Very strong, sturdy, stable and structurally sound. Presents splendidly. Rich, rustic, original patina, with warm, lustrous sheen. Highly desirable patinated finish, naturally distressed, mild chippy paint, weathered finish, worn, elegantly aged, lightly faded, some checking (fine splits) chips, minor losses, distress. All that only add character to the pedestal. Worthy of your finest sculpture. less