Antique French wooden plant stand with carved grape motifs

A distinctive tall plant stand from France, probably late 19th century. The column has a powerful screw form reminiscent of the wooden spindle of an old wine or fruit press. It stands on a richly carved base with open arches, bunches of grapes, vine leaves and scrolling foliage. The rim of the round top is also decorated all round with grapes and leaves. Under several of the feet is a partly worn stamped mark, in which the letters 'Walt...' and 'Anne...' can be made out. This may refer to Annemasse in Haute-Savoie, but the text is not fully legible and is therefore not attributed to a specific maker. The warm brown colour, the old surface and the bold carving give this column a great deal of character. Thanks to its slender, tall form, lovely as a plant stand, but also as a pedestal for a vase, sculpture or lamp in a rustic, classic or eclectic interior. Dimensions: 22 × 22 × 118 cm. Material: solid wood. Period: probably late 19th century. Origin: France. Condition: well-worn but stable. Old drying cracks, scratches, wear, minor damage and old woodworm holes, consistent with age and former use.