Important carved, molded and patinated walnut lectern featur - Lot 4

Important carved, molded and patinated walnut lectern featuring an eagle with open wings surmounting a globe. It stands on a tripod base adorned with Corinthian capitals, burst shells and scrolls. The whole is supported by scrolled and arched feet. France. 19th century. H_ 195 cm L_ 85 cm (Restorations, cracks and pitting). Expert : Stéphane Pepe The lectern has its origins in medieval religious practices, where it was used to support liturgical books or psalters in monasteries, churches and chapels. As art and architecture evolved, lecterns became more ornate and elaborate, notably in the Gothic era, when they were adorned with ornaments. This taste continued through the Baroque period, when decoration became more exuberant, as on our example, topped with an eagle.