Hand-carved from oak in the 1600s, this French cartouche panel consists of thick, beautiful decorative motifs surrounding a central portrait of a fair-headed young man with a black background. The gentleman in the oval painting has long blond hair and is clad in green and rose-colored garments. His right hand is pointing upwards, possibly indicating a religious theme.

A thick half-round border encircles the painting, with elements depicting a parted curtain overlapping near the top. Similarly, lobes of two parted leaves nestled between a pair of volute scrolls curl over the molding. Both sides of the panel feature a drastic curve, eventually coming to rest beneath a pair of large rosettes that flank a cherub mascaron above the portrait. The top edge gently arcs, providing a juxtaposition if the panel were to be installed as an overdoor, above the rectilinear frame. It can also be displayed as a piece of wall art in just about any room of the house from a bedroom or bathroom to the living room.

CONDITION: Good, strong antique condition with minor losses and age separations, which can be expected on 400-year-old wood. Some craquelure and rubs to the painting, both commensurate to age. Eyelets on the back for hanging purposes are not original and should be inspected before installation.