An 18th C. carved and painted wooden " above-the-door" ornament.

An "above-the-door" ornament. High 25 cm. Wide 53 cm. Thick 6 cm. Nicely carved and painted with a vase with flowers. This type of decoration was often used above the entrance of a Dutch 18th C. house. Originally the idea was that the entering guest would be blessed with good fortune. From the present condition of the wood it is obvious that this ornament has been exposed to the open air for some time. Holland, 18th C.