Antique French Terracotta Architectural Element

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Very large unglazed terracotta architectural element sourced through a to-the-trade importer of European antiques. What a beautiful decorative addition to … Read more Very large unglazed terracotta architectural element sourced through a to-the-trade importer of European antiques. What a beautiful decorative addition to a garden or bookcase; stunning as the focal point of a tabletop centerpiece. Or use as intended, perhaps on an entry roof to provide sunlight at the front door.

Pieces such as this were used as trim surrounding small, non-opening roof windows ("lucarnes") on a French chateau's terracotta tile mansard roof, allowing light to reach the center of large rooms. This example was fabricated by "Leclerc Duporcq et Cie" of Ons en Bray in northern France, a region know for its fine clay products. Our research suggests this to be from the turn of the 18th/19th C, possibly be earlier.

Excellent, as-found condition with no cracks, no crazing; minor staining and one small chip on back which is not readily apparent when displayed (see photos). See less