18th Century Italian Handcarved Polychrome Painted Pilaster Friezes, Set of 2

This pair of Italian 18th-century (early 1700) highly decorative architectural pilaster friezes is deeply hand-carved with a wonderful composition of fruits, flowers, and leaves, all hand-painted, lacquered, and gilded. These pillars are amazing examples of Sicilian folk art. They may have been part of a choral ensemble and now serve as antique artworks for ornamental purposes. Their slightly scrolled design and cheerful decorative motifs make them perfect for flanking a bookshelf, highlighting a niche, finishing architraves, balustrades, balconies, or simply hanging on the wall as wooden sculptures whether vertically or horizontally. These hand-painted pillars, adorned with high-relief carvings of leafy curls and flowers, open up numerous imaginative uses. They can also be converted into lamps by adding a base or repurposed as large over-door decorations. Such lavish paneling elements with multi-layered decorations were characteristic of South Italy interiors in the late 17th and early 18th centuries. They will now make a great and one-of-a-kind addition to any interior design project, injecting a strong touch of Italianate and Mediterranean aesthetics. Measures: Height 157 cm, Width 20 cm, Depth 5 cm. Design Period: Before 1890. Production Period: Before 1890. Country of Manufacture: Italy. Detailed Condition: Very Good — This vintage/antique item has no defects, but it may show slight traces of use. Restoration and Damage Details: Light wear consistent with age and use, patina consistent with age and use.