Antique French Wrought Iron Entryway Surround With Gilded Lyre Decor, C. 1920s

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This stunning French grille features hand-wrought iron with a deep black finish and gilded lyre motifs and banding, in the … Read more This stunning French grille features hand-wrought iron with a deep black finish and gilded lyre motifs and banding, in the style of Napoleon III. It is possible that the large architectural element was used as an entryway surround for a garden or courtyard at a French chateau in the 1920s.

The opening, which measures 84 ½ inches tall and 70 inches wide, is flanked by two vertical sections that are each 38 ¾ inches wide. Above the walkthrough is a transom that is detailed with an arabesque of scrolls, barbs, and volutes, mirroring the top of the two flanking walls. The sides are comprised of an elegant display of elongated volutes with textured fluting that are connected by gilded bands and roundels. In the center is a golden lyre with strings that seem to float in between the surrounding whorls. At the bottom of the vertical sections is an arrangement of five stylized fleur de lys with wavy prickets and additional gilt bands.

Two architraves with tongue and groove joinery keep the gate taut, as all five sections are then bolted together (although the original hardware attachments are no longer present). Our French entryway surround has a regal presence, as the gilded highlights infuse the heavy dark iron with a sense of sophistication. The surround would make a grand entrance for a formal room, wine cellar, or it could even be installed as a dramatic piece of wall art. See less