Antique Giltwood Wall Bracket with Griffins – Renaissance Revival

A superb example of 19th-century Renaissance Revival craftsmanship, this elaborately carved giltwood wall bracket features a pair of mythological winged griffins, each with exaggerated, highly expressive arched eyebrows and scrolling tails. The griffins, perched symmetrically beneath the shelf, exhibit a dramatic presence characteristic of neoclassical and revivalist interior decoration.

The background panel is adorned with a finely incised diapered pattern, while the base terminates in a shell and scroll motif — classical elements revived from Italian Renaissance architecture and decorative arts.

The Renaissance Revival style, popular in Europe and America between the mid-19th and early 20th centuries, was part of a broader movement of historicist design. Artisans and architects during this period reinterpreted motifs from 15th–16th century Italy, drawing on myth, symmetry, and symbolism to reflect intellectualism and grandeur.

The griffin, a mythical beast with the body of a lion and wings and head of an eagle, symbolizes protection, power, and vigilance — qualities often invoked in classical and revival art. Its inclusion here likely alludes to strength and guardianship, making this bracket not just decorative but also emblematic.

Condition Report

The gilt finish remains largely intact, exhibiting a warm, aged patina consistent with its 19th-century origin. Small restoration repairs have been done overtime.

Measurement

Height:     29 cm /    11.4 inches

Width:      24 cm /    9.4 inches

Depth:      18 cm /    7.1 inches

Weight:    1 k.g  /      2.2 Ilbs