Hand-carved around 1870 from French oak, this plaque was originally intended to function as a ceiling medallion, most likely for a themed boiserie room. The walls of the room would have featured oak paneling with a similar rich brown finish and foliate motifs.
The plaque is comprised of several planks of oak, with the edges forming a roughly three-inch thick oval border. Set within this perimeter is a large canopy of curled leaves with a center roundel. All of the elements rise significantly above the low-lying border, extending about 3 ½ inches beyond and providing depth to the carvings. Our oak plaque can once again be used as a ceiling medallion or it can be hung on a wall as a beautiful piece of decorative art.
CONDITION: Good antique condition, with minor age separations. Light rubs and losses as well. Not rigged for hanging, but there is a small hole in the center roundel from a previous installation. Please see photos for details.