Antique Indian Teak and Cathedral Glass Overdoor Lunette, First Half of the 20th Century, 1920s

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Description

A refined, reclaimed original architectural element, this extraordinary door fanlight (also known as a fanlight) dates back to the early … Read more A refined, reclaimed original architectural element, this extraordinary door fanlight (also known as a fanlight) dates back to the early decades of the 20th century (circa 1920-1930). The piece perfectly embodies the Anglo-Indian Colonial style, a fascinating blend of Victorian Gothic Revival and the craftsmanship of traditional Asian carpentry.
Originally inserted into the upper part of the window frames of a stately home or a haveli (the historic mansions of Indian merchants), this element allowed natural light to filter into the interior while ensuring complete privacy.
Made of solid, ultra-high-density tropical wood (teak or sheesham), the structure is distinguished by its generous thickness and a considerable weight of 17 kg. This old-world sturdiness served to embed the element directly into the thick load-bearing walls of the time.
The interior glass panes, featuring interwoven semicircles, retain their original panes 100%, a rare detail on the antiques market. The stained glass panes are embellished with delicate geometric and floral roller-printed textures, diffusing light and creating evocative chromatic reflections in the room.
The wooden surface retains the remnants of the original varnishes, layered over time, to a captivating shade of pale aquamarine and sage green. The patina has been left untouched to preserve the authenticity and historical significance of the object.
The back of the structure reveals the exceptional period carpentry: the wooden blocks are joined using traditional interlocking systems and wooden pins, with a complete absence of exposed nails or industrial screws.
The object is in excellent structural and conservation condition. The glass panes are miraculously free of streaks, cracks, or breaks. The glass panes exhibit some characteristic small air bubbles and imperfections on the back, typical of the artisanal craftsmanship of the period.
The wood exhibits some natural shrinkage cracks that follow the grain of the solid wood, caused by normal temperature fluctuations over the course of a century.
These elements in no way affect the solidity of the piece, but rather certify its absolute authenticity and historical period.
This piece now stands as a true architectural sculpture. It can be hung on the wall like a work of art, positioned above a console or modern sideboard to create an eclectic contrast, or backlit to transform it into a suggestive atmospheric lighting installation.
A unique piece of great charm and evocative value. See less