Antique European Carved & Polychrome Wood Ecclesiastical Lectern With Ihs Christogram

Details

Description

A remarkable antique ecclesiastical lectern or church book stand constructed in carved wood with remnants of its original polychrome decoration … Read more A remarkable antique ecclesiastical lectern or church book stand constructed in carved wood with remnants of its original polychrome decoration and a beautifully aged surface.
The slanted book rest features an IHS Christogram within a radiant sunburst, one of the traditional symbols of Christ used extensively in historic Catholic church furnishings. Small iron fittings along the sides would have helped secure or support a large liturgical book.
The substantial architectural pedestal is particularly impressive, incorporating a turned central column, carved foliate ornament, scrolling brackets and a stepped paneled base. Traces of deep red, green and darker painted decoration remain throughout, creating the richly layered surface and patina that only develops through considerable age and use.
Rather than having been refinished, the piece retains extensive evidence of its history: worn surfaces, paint loss, abrasions, old insect activity, oxidation to the iron fittings, small losses and irregularities throughout. These characteristics are integral to its antique character and ecclesiastical presence.
A highly atmospheric object that works beautifully as a sculptural architectural element as well as a display stand for a large book, manuscript or other treasured object. Particularly suited to Old World, Gothic, Spanish Colonial, European ecclesiastical or collected interiors.
Approximate dimensions:
75" H
23" W at book rest
13" D at base
Please refer to the measurement photographs for additional reference.
Condition: Antique condition with substantial age-related wear. Extensive surface wear, finish and polychrome loss, abrasions, cracking, old insect holes/activity, oxidation, small losses and irregularities are visible throughout. The book rest and carved elements show considerable wear consistent with age and long use. No attempt has been made to disguise its aged surface. Please examine all photographs closely as they form an important part of the condition description. See less