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Hand-carved grotesque mask (mascaron, or Fratze in German) furniture applique. Likely late 19th century, Austrian/Central European, from the Historicism period. The face sticks its tongue out and is framed by acanthus leaves in the Renaissance Revival style. The relief is deep, with crisp, expressive detail and a warm stained patina.
Carved from lindenwood (limewood), the traditional choice of Central European carvers. It’s lightweight for its size.
It was salvaged from a piece of furniture. The flat back shows hand-tool marks from its original glued mounting, and there’s no hanger. It’s suitable for furniture restoration or display, or it can be mounted as a small wall piece. Purchased in Vienna, Austria.
Condition: Excellent. There’s a small chip on the lower left leaf (see photos). The irregular edges at the top are part of the carved leaf pattern.
Measures 5 3/8 x 2 1/4 x 1 3/4 in.
