Northern Europe
9th–12th century
Limestone
Height: 11 in (27.9 cm), Width: 9 in (22.9 cm)
Provenance: Jessar Family Trust, Pennsylvania
Note: Some very old restorations present.
Keystones and corbels bearing carved human faces were produced across Northern Europe throughout the Romanesque period, serving structural and decorative functions in ecclesiastical and secular stone architecture. The human face motif, whether representing a saint, a donor, a green man, or an apotropaic guardian, was among the most persistent carved programs in medieval building. Examples in limestone are documented from church portals, nave vaulting, and exterior cornices from the ninth century through the Gothic transition.
This example is carved in high relief, depicting a youthful face with long wavy hair parted at center, high cheekbones, and a restrained smile. The modeling is direct and confident, with the facial planes rendered in a manner consistent with Romanesque workshop production of the region. Old restorations are present, attesting to the object's long history of preservation and collection prior to its acquisition by the Jessar Family Trust.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
Northern Europe
9th–12th century
Limestone
Height: 11 in (27.9 cm), Width: 9 in (22.9 cm)
Provenance: Jessar Family Trust, Pennsylvania
Note: Some very old restorations present.
Keystones and corbels bearing carved human faces were produced across Northern Europe throughout the Romanesque period, serving structural and decorative functions in ecclesiastical and secular stone architecture. The human face motif, whether representing a saint, a donor, a green man, or an apotropaic guardian, was among the most persistent carved programs in medieval building. Examples in limestone are documented from church portals, nave vaulting, and exterior cornices from the ninth century through the Gothic transition.
This example is carved in high relief, depicting a youthful face with long wavy hair parted at center, high cheekbones, and a restrained smile. The modeling is direct and confident, with the facial planes rendered in a manner consistent with Romanesque workshop production of the region. Old restorations are present, attesting to the object's long history of preservation and collection prior to its acquisition by the Jessar Family Trust.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
