Produced in France, this large arched plaster overdoor has been sculpted in bas-relief, or low relief. In bas-relief, a sculptural image is raised to a shallow depth above the background. If viewed from the side, the sculpture has no meaning, as elements blend. However, when viewed from the front, the slight changes in depth present a three-dimensional rendering.

Our bright architectural overdoor panel depicts a vase embellished with gadrooning, a diapered body, and long scrolled handles. A large flowering bouquet rises from the mouth of the vase as fruited vines emanate from the floral arrangement.

Beneath this canopy of flowers, two figures lay on parcels of fabric. They are loosely wrapped in ribbons and are reclining on the shaped plinth of the vase. The women are possibly nymphs, companions of the Greek god, Pan. Pan, known as Faunus in Roman mythology, was known to have a frightening visage and goat on horns on top of his head. In the middle of the plinth, above a garland of flowers, is a mascaron that matches that description. Pan, who ruled over wooded areas and pastures, is often associated with nature, which explains the presence of flowers and vines on this panel.

Originally, overdoors were placed “over doors” in French paneled rooms. They can still be used in this manner or as a decorative piece of wall art anywhere in the home. Length=65 inches

The overdoor weighs roughly 60 lbs.

CONDITION: Wear commensurate to age and use with minor losses and nicks. Light buildup on moldings.