Pair Early 20th Century Italian Carved and Painted Wall Hanging Heraldic Shields

$8,400

About

Decorate a game room or a study with this large and colorful pair of antique plaques. Crafted in southern Italy circa 1920, each bombe panel features “Trompe l’oeil” scrolled and scalloped edges, including a prominent symmetrical decor with ornate flourishes surrounding the central shield; the center is decorated with an oval heraldic medallion with great attention to historical detail. The left half of the first shield displays black and white diagonal stripes, with a golden lion rampant, symbolizing strength and nobility. The right half is decorated with a pattern of red Fleur-de-Lis over a cream background, along with a double-headed black eagle holding a sword and scepter, indicating imperial authority or power. At the bottom of the shield, there are two smaller, circular shields, each displaying additional symbols, including a red and yellow orb with a black spider-like figure and a red cross over black, possibly representing additional familial crests or alliances. The left side of the other shield features black and white diagonal stripes, while the right side is adorned with a red Fleur-de-Lis pattern; the center features a golden lion rampant. Both shields are encased in an elaborate cartouche with scrolling Baroque designs, painted in soft grays and blues, adding a grand and decorative touch. Below the main shield are two smaller escutcheons, each displaying distinct emblems: one with a red and yellow orb-like figure, and the other with a black cross and Fleur-de-Lys over red and black, likely representing additional coats of arms or family ties. Both tall decorative Baroque wall plaques are in excellent condition commensurate with age and use, and adorn rich colors on a two-tone soft grey background. The Fleur-de-Lis, also spelled Fleur-de-Lys, is a stylized lily (in French, Fleur and Lis mean ‘flower’ and ‘lily’ respectively) that is used as a decorative design or symbol. The Fleur-de-Lis has been used in the heraldry of numerous European nations, but is particularly associated with France, notably during its monarchical period. As France is a historically Catholic nation, the Fleur-de-Lis became “at one and the same time, religious, political, dynastic, artistic, emblematic, and symbolic,” especially in French heraldry. The Fleur-de-Lis has been used by French royalty and throughout history to represent Catholic saints of France. In particular, the Virgin Mary and Saint Joseph are often depicted with a lily. Could be sold separately. Measures: 34.75″W x 46.25″H.

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