Description:
I hope I can find adequate words to describe this amazing estate find!
This is a fireplace surround that although not signed or dated, shows every indication of being ancient and very, very primitive in its origins. However, in spite of primitivity, the design is masterful, intricate, imaginative, and done with a skilled and artistic hand.
First, the photos: Photo one is the full screen. Photo two shows the carving at the center of the crosspiece. Photo three shows the one hole that I found in the entire piece. Photo four shows the top left corner, with the panels and framework disassembled.
In terms of inventiveness, this one definitely qualifies. This surround was actually pieced together with many different panels and pieces of framing pieces. Each of the carved panels fits into its own niche, secured with very primitive and ancient nails. the side pieces joint to the cross piece by means of tabs that are inserted into slots that, when in place, cause the entire creation to seem as if it is one solid piece.
In order to be able to transport this treasure, we had to disassemble one of the sides, by gently removing the nails and sliding the tabs out of their slots. Because it is an old piece, I did not attempt to reassemble the side that I took apart, since when it is shipped to the new owner, I will enlist the services of an expert woodworker to help me remove the other side piece, so that they can all be shipped in a long, narrow parcel, ample cushioning between each of the sections. Once in the possession of the new owner, there are a number of options. Of course, the first option and my strong suggestion, would be to have this masterpiece reassembled with the help of an experienced woodworker. However, it could also be disassembled and each of the panels could be used for whatever the new owner feels would be their best purpose.
The photos that I've included on this page show the entire surround laying on the ground, taken from the side, standing on a ladder, with the pieces assembled on a white background. It really doesn't show much except the general shape.
The other photos show some of the detail, including the one and only hole that I found anywhere on the surround, and the already disassembled top left side of the surround, showing how the carved panels fit into the framework of the piece. The piece has clearly never been refinished or restored and there are areas where you can see very, very old yellow, orange, and other colors of paint, although I am unable to tell whether the paint wsa part of a design or whether it was painted different colors at different times.
It is a mystery within an enigma. You can clearly see what it is, but the fascination comes when you begin to examine the carvings and the construction and the paint and you mind begins to wander over where this beautiful relic has been and how it has managed to survive in such remarkable condition.
I strongly encourage you to email me to request additional photos, as I have taken many and there is so much detail that can't be shown in the four photos that are the limit for this page. I am also happy to answer any questions you might have.
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