What are these two figures holding up an entablature called? Carved wood caryatids

Do you know what these two figures, which seem to hold up this entablature, are called? They are caryatids. Here, two carved wood caryatids support with their hands the entablature that finishes the top.

What is a caryatid?

The word caryatid comes from Greek. It describes a sculpted figure that acts as a support, in place of a column or pillar. Widely used in architecture, caryatids also found their place in furniture design from the Renaissance onwards.

Caryatids and atlantes: what is the difference?

These two types of sculpted supports are often confused, yet the distinction is simple:

A caryatid is a female figure that replaces a column and carries an entablature, a balcony or a tabletop.

An atlas (plural atlantes, sometimes called a telamon) is its male counterpart. Its name recalls Atlas, the Titan of Greek mythology condemned to hold up the heavens on his shoulders. Atlantes are usually shown as powerful figures, sometimes bent under the effort.

In both cases the function is the same: a sculpted figure that supports a structure. Here, these are indeed caryatids, carrying the entablature at the tips of their hands.

Carved wood caryatids from the 19th century

The two caryatids shown here date from the 19th century, most likely the early 20th century. They are entirely hand-carved in wood and mounted on a gaine (a tapered pedestal).

With their hands, they support the entablature, which in turn finishes the top. This composition gives the whole piece a strong presence and a distinctly architectural character.

Console or fireplace: two possible uses

This ensemble can be adapted to several decorating projects. It can become a console, or be integrated into a fireplace, depending on the layout you have in mind.

Either way, it is a particularly interesting decorative element: a beautiful sculpture that brings great character to an interior while preserving the spirit and charm of antique pieces.

Watch the video: discover the caryatids

Rémy Motte presents this piece in a few seconds:

A piece to discover at Rémy Motte

Discover the caryatid console or fireplace in our catalogue, along with all our antiques.

Rémy Motte – Antiques Dealer & Interior Decorator
202 rue Jean Jaurès, 59491 Villeneuve-d'Ascq, France
Tel.: +33 3 20 89 88 91 – magasin@remy-motte.fr