This pair of antique pine doors were hand carved in Egypt in the early 1900’s. They were produced at a time when French architecture and style had a great influence on the Egyptian culture, especially in Cairo. Some Renaissance style, architecturally inspired motifs can often seen mixed in with more local styles, all while using native wood. Most of the iron hardware on these doors, such as the hinges are original, but some of the locks and the handle were added after production.

Mortise and tenon joints can be seen on the side of each door. Mortise and tenon have been used in construction for thousands of years because the joint is simple to build and it is incredibly strong.

The top rail of each door is adorned cavetto molding and downward facing battlement that is flanked by a pair of scrolled corbels, known as consoles. A carved rectangular panel, raised above the molding, can be seen beneath the battlement. A similar panel, but vertically oriented, is surrounded by cavetto molding below.

Mid rails of both doors are embellished with a recessed oval surrounded by more cavetto molding. The right door has an old iron handle in the recession. Beneath the ovals are rectangular panels much like the ones beneath the top rail, yet smaller in scale. The bottom rail has a horizontal carving of a stylized infinity symbol surrounded by cavetto molding. The infinity symbol can trace its roots to the legend of the Ouroboros, a depiction of a snake eating its own tail that originated in Egypt in 14th century BC.

Out early 20th century Egyptian doors can be used in interior spaces that need narrow doors, such as a pantry or a closet.

CONDITION: Antique condition with age separations and minor losses. Old repairs visible. Some of the iron hardware has been added after production but is still old. Please see photos for details.