The carvings on this antique limestone jardiniere planter are exemplary; they are the work of a master stone mason. Hand-carved in France at the turn of the 19th century (circa 1800), the jardiniere features two winged cherub mascarons on opposing sides. They are joined by a wonderful and intricate floral swag, complete with leaves and berries. Interestingly, the swag is only visible on the front side, as the backside is lacking carvings, allowing the fantastic, darkened patina to accentuate the gray stone. Additionally, there are areas with a brown accumulation of moss and lichen, most noticeably on the thick and recessed quarter-round molding of the interior. Beneath the ovate main body is a neck with several layers of molding, supported by a rectangular plinth. A drainage hole has been carved into the basin, allowing the finely carved jardiniere to be used as a planter, either outside or indoors.

CONDITION: Very good antique condition with moss and lichen accumulation. Light traces of paint stains on the plinth from the orange coloration that lines part of the interior. Limestone is a natural material that can change colors with exposure to the elements. Some old touch ups and repairs.