This beautiful French sculpted and painted panel was carved in mid-relief in the mid-18th century, circa 1750.  It has been painted in a French blue-gray and light cream, with gold accents.

Mid-relief, sometimes referred to as “half-relief” or mezzo-rilievo, borrows elements from both high-relief and bas-relief carvings. In mid-relief, figures are carved so that half of their body mass is projected above the background (similar to high-relief), yet still attached to the backdrop (as is the case with bas-relief).

The panel has been painted in a blueish-gray color with gold highlights. A scalloped shell crown with curled wings dominates the top of the panel. In the center of the shell, a bird, possibly a duck, is superimposed sitting upon two stylized French dolphins. Each dolphin has gold motifs hanging from its mouth. The dolphins are resting on top of a footed vase that is textured and adorned with gadrooning.

Flanking the vase are two barefoot putti with wavy hair wearing only gold sashes around their waists. The putti are looking back towards the vase/dolphins while shielding their eyes with a raised arm. The putti are standing on rocky terrain that is dotted with foliate branches and stalks. A floral margent hangs behind each putti. The putti, vase and dolphins are all surrounded by a gold border that lays beneath the elements.

Measuring at 3.5 feet high, this unique antique carved and painted panel from France will be the focal point on any wall.

CONDITION: Good antique condition with age separation and minor rubs. The gilding to the moulding, was likely done at a later date (“Rechampi”).