This is the largest of these old carved wood Black Forest holy fonts we've had, standing nearly 16" tall. It's a style we see relatively regularly, with a nest and birds, a vine-encased cross rising above them. The fact that these birds are each missing a portion of the facing wing, which would have extended forward over the holy font, makes one feel like there isn't anything missing there at all, oddly enough. I had to really look closed to decide if it was intentional on the carver's part. But I think what it represents is old damage having been smoothed out to look like it does now. Just calling your attention to it so you'll know what I mean. That said, the rest of the carving is all fully intact, beautifully done, and this extra large size makes it extra appealing. I've always wondered about these holy fonts carved in wood. You wouldn't really want to keep water in that font, though I suppose it's possible for a special service such as at Easter time. This one is large enough to make a lovely decorative statement for Holiday or throughout the year. We will be listing a smaller one, too, with a lamb instead of birds (sold separately), which is also spectacular!
Very good condition for age and type, with the single flaw being the shortened wings on the 2 birds (mentioned above) and otherwise not a single nip or chip or flaw to note. Extra large at nearly 16" tall, and the work or an excellent carver. Truly a work of sculpture, dates late 1800s.
