October Fall Classic
Lot 1263:
Description
This is an impressive piece of architectural salvage, likely a gargoyle or decorative wall spout (gargouille), executed in a handsome Asian-inspired design featuring a dragon or fantastical beast head. The word gargoyle derives from the French gargouille, meaning “throat.” The casting has a long, rectilinear mounting arm, suggesting it was meant to cantilever from a wall or structure, possibly serving as a downspout or water feature, as indicated by the open mouth. It appears to be constructed of cast bronze or heavily patinated brass, featuring a deep, desirable verdigris patina that speaks to a significant age and long-term outdoor exposure. The heavy, ornate head features a prominent scrolled mane, large eyes, a toothy snout, and is topped with a large, screw-off spherical finial, which suggests this piece may have originally housed a light fixture or had an internal liquid reservoir. It is a solid, heavy piece of metalwork that would make a striking statement in a garden or entry way. The overall condition is good, showing heavy wear consistent with age and outdoor use, including the deep green-blue patina, some areas of oxidation and darker brown/black discoloration, minor pitting in the casting, and a few small flakes of green patina missing. There is an exposed hole on the top and bottom of the arm, likely post use modification. H 8″, W 4.75″, D 13.5″. See photos.
Share this lot:
