Antique Renaissance Revival Walnut Carved Cherub Wall Panel, 1800s

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Description

An antique beautifully hand-carved walnut relief panel depicting a classical winged cherub surrounded by elaborate Rococo-inspired ornament, carved in relief … Read more An antique beautifully hand-carved walnut relief panel depicting a classical winged cherub surrounded by elaborate Rococo-inspired ornament, carved in relief with strong sculptural depth and confident modelling.

The cherub is framed by flowing acanthus scrolls and foliate motifs, carved with pronounced curvature and shadow play.

The carving dates to the late 19th century, reflecting the height of Renaissance Revival craftsmanship in European decorative arts.

Below the central figure appear two ram’s heads, a traditional classical motif associated with strength and vitality, carved with expressive features and scrolling horns. The upper section incorporates two additional stylised heads, integrated into the surrounding foliage, adding complexity and narrative richness to the composition.

These elements together create a balanced and highly decorative architectural panel, characteristic of late 19th-century revival carving traditions.

The carving demonstrates skilled hand workmanship throughout, with crisp transitions between raised and recessed areas and a textured ground that enhances contrast and depth.

The surface has been carefully revived using traditional finishes, bringing out the natural warmth and richness of the walnut while preserving the character, it has a beautiful patina appropriate to its age.

The panel is presented in a later 20th-century stained wooden frame, likely pine, added for display and protection. The frame is deliberately restrained in profile, allowing the carving to remain the primary visual focus. The panel can be easily removed and reframed if desired.

This piece works exceptionally well as a decorative wall panel, over-console feature, or statement object within both classical and contemporary interiors, where sculptural texture and historic ornament are desired. with its balanced proportions and vertical format (61.5 × 34 cm), this panel is ideally sized for placement between wall openings, within narrow architectural spaces to bring an interesting accent into a corner or niche. See less