Antique missal stand (Bible holder) - Antique - Wood - 1920-1930






Holds a degree in art history; over six years cataloguing and appraising antiques.
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Description from the seller
Antique missal stand (Bible holder) in carved and gilded wood - Baroque style recently restored.
This is a sacred, table-top lectern (originally used as a missal holder or Bible stand), entirely made of solid wood carved by hand and embellished with gold finishes that highlight its shapes.
The piece stands out for its rich ecclesiastical workmanship:
• Upper backrest: Characterized by a shaped profile with volutes and topped by a shell-shaped pediment. At the center stands a splendid pierced motif with a geometric and floral taste.
• Lower base: The plinth repeats Baroque decorative motifs with a central shell carving (rocaille style) and rests on two elegant, curved, and shaped feet.
• Functionality: The horizontal resting plane, gilded along the edge, is equipped with an original hinged joint that allows the structure to be folded for easier transport or storage.
The characteristic wooden hinged joint, a mortise-and-tenon hinge entirely carved from the solid (often also called a "comb hinge" or "monobloc hinge"), is made without any joints or metal components as seen in the photos.
This is a typical craft of traditional artistic workmanship (often from Alpine, monastic, or folk cabinetmaking regions), highly valued for demonstrating great manual technical skill.
It is in excellent condition with the classic patina of time that authenticates its age.
A piece of great charm and visual impact, perfect for collectors of sacred art, liturgical objects, or as an exclusive furniture element to enhance antique books and valuable volumes.
Closed measurements: H 49 / W 25; Open: H 40
Seller's Story
Antique missal stand (Bible holder) in carved and gilded wood - Baroque style recently restored.
This is a sacred, table-top lectern (originally used as a missal holder or Bible stand), entirely made of solid wood carved by hand and embellished with gold finishes that highlight its shapes.
The piece stands out for its rich ecclesiastical workmanship:
• Upper backrest: Characterized by a shaped profile with volutes and topped by a shell-shaped pediment. At the center stands a splendid pierced motif with a geometric and floral taste.
• Lower base: The plinth repeats Baroque decorative motifs with a central shell carving (rocaille style) and rests on two elegant, curved, and shaped feet.
• Functionality: The horizontal resting plane, gilded along the edge, is equipped with an original hinged joint that allows the structure to be folded for easier transport or storage.
The characteristic wooden hinged joint, a mortise-and-tenon hinge entirely carved from the solid (often also called a "comb hinge" or "monobloc hinge"), is made without any joints or metal components as seen in the photos.
This is a typical craft of traditional artistic workmanship (often from Alpine, monastic, or folk cabinetmaking regions), highly valued for demonstrating great manual technical skill.
It is in excellent condition with the classic patina of time that authenticates its age.
A piece of great charm and visual impact, perfect for collectors of sacred art, liturgical objects, or as an exclusive furniture element to enhance antique books and valuable volumes.
Closed measurements: H 49 / W 25; Open: H 40
