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18th Century Portuguese Altar

Offered by: Fireside Antiques

Description
Dimensions: 34 1/4” H x 18 3/4” W x 9 ⅞” D

An exquisite work of 18th century Portuguese craftsmanship, this carved, painted, and gilded wood tabletop altar-niche would have been used to stage religious artifacts or statuary for display. Suspended from the red demilune crown is a highly-detailed carved finial like an artichoke with leaves forming a canopy, traced on the outer edges of the fascia with dentil molding and other patterns. The faux-marble backdrop enhances its rich visual depth (a classic expression of Italian and Iberian Baroque design) which creates movement, drama, and grandeur through elaborate ornamentation. Perhaps once part of a church interior, this niche was designed to enshrine a saintly statue, elevating its spiritual presence for one’s own devotion. Out of context and in a domestic space this work becomes a rare and striking piece of sacred art history on its own. Please view the detailed images to see the current condition.

More Information

Origin:	Portugal
Period:	18th Century
Materials:	Carved, Gold, paint, Painted, Wood, Gilded.
Condition:	Good.
Creation Date:	1700's
Styles / Movements:	Baroque, Traditional
Dealer Reference #:	5066-5
Incollect Reference #:	830725

Dimensions

W.	18.75 in;	H.	34.25 in;	D.	9.875 in;
W.	47.63 cm;	H.	87 cm;	D.	25.08 cm;

Message from Seller:

Fireside Antiques, founded in 1982 by Cheri McDaniel and Susan Roland, is now owned and operated by the third generation, Laura Roland. For inquiries, contact info@firesideantiques.com or 225.752.9565, and explore our extensive collection either online or at our 18,000 square foot showroom in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.