Carved from a single block of solid Carrara marble, this exceptional 17th century French heraldic crest was discovered in a château in the Loire Valley.
The deeply sculpted shield bears lion accented by a diagonal bend, with the lion crowned as an emblem of noble authority. In traditional heraldry, the lion represents courage, strength, valor, and nobility, while the bend is associated with defense and protection.
A winged cherub presides above the shield, symbolizing divine guardianship and heavenly protection. Scrolling acanthus leaves, bold volutes, and a coronet surround the composition, creating the rich sculptural character associated with French Renaissance and early Baroque architectural ornament.
Centuries of natural aging have softened the marble and enriched its surface with an authentic timeworn patina. Originally created as an expression of family lineage and noble identity, this remarkable crest is now a magnificent work of sculptural art for an interior, courtyard, or garden wall.
Circa 1600s
Measures 16H x 10W x 2.5D
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This artifact is available at Inessa Stewart’s Antiques, Dallas Design District, Dallas, Texas.