Highly Carved 18th Century Rocaille Overdoor From France

With its elaborate Rocaille style, this period Louis XV overdoor was hand-carved in France during the 1700s. Rocaille pieces featured dramatic movements that drew inspiration from nature, often expressed as a series of leafy counter-curves, as seen on this highly carved overdoor.

Supported by a long, chamfered base, the central element is a medallion of grape clusters behind a fluted and gadrooned chalice. A crinkled ribbon that emerges from the top of the medallion gently falls to the sides of the wine-themed items. The entire grouping is surrounded by a sinuous molding of a gadrooned leaf that is topped by a curled leaf dotted with rosettes. Although the leaf coil is asymmetrically shaped, the overdoor has an overall symmetrical appearance, as noted by the identical gadrooned leaves that form open scrolls flanking the medallion.

In the 18th century, this Rocaille overdoor would have been hung over a door, hence the name. The beautiful carving would have been paired with paneling on the walls that had wine and/or foliate themes. It can also be hung as a decorative wall accessory or used as a unique headboard for a larger bed, such as king or California king.