An English carved oak lion mask panel, 19th century, in the 17th-century manner

An English carved oak lion mask panel, 19th century, in the 17th-century manner.

A boldly carved English oak architectural panel centred by a powerful lion mask, the face deeply modelled with prominent brows, rounded eyes, broad muzzle and scrolling whiskers, the open mouth enclosing a carved ring or scroll device.

The mask is framed by a vigorously carved mane treated in strongly stylised, almost architectural locks, with further scrolling ornament above and to the sides. The pronounced relief and emphatic symmetry are derived from the grotesque and lion-mask ornament popular in English architectural woodwork of the 17th century.

The panel has a rich, dark surface and attractive wear, the close grain of the oak enhancing the strongly sculptural quality of the carving.

Lion masks had long associations with strength, guardianship and authority, and were frequently incorporated into architectural joinery, furniture, overmantels, staircases and decorative panelling.

A particularly striking piece of English carved oak, with considerable presence as a wall-mounted architectural fragment.

H 34  x  W 22  x  D 16cm