Pair of terracotta roof ornaments with palmette – Greek Neoclassical akrokeramo, c. 1880–1930

Pair of terracotta roof ornaments with palmette – Greek neoclassical akrokeramo

Two terracotta roof ornaments, known in Greece as akrokerama and in English also as antefixes or roof ridge ornaments. They are mould-made with a rich palmette (anthemion) above elegant volutes, and painted red. At the back is a hollow, half-round extension that slid over the roof tiles: this is how they decorated the eaves or ridge of a house.

Such ornaments belong to the neoclassical architecture that flourished in Greece from the mid-19th century, inspired by the ancient Greek temple. They were made in many variations until the early 20th century. The weathered paint, the lime residue and the wear on this pair point to genuine use on a roof.

Why we chose this piece

A piece of Greek architecture you can display at home. The palmettes are sculptural, and the warm red colour with the white lime residue gives them a beautiful, timeworn look.

Style and interior

Lovely as a pair on a mantelpiece, in a bookcase or on a sideboard, in a classic, Mediterranean, wabi-sabi or rustic interior. Also beautiful as bookends or as an accent in a garden room.

Dimensions: each 23 cm high, 16 cm wide, 17 cm deep
Material: terracotta, painted red
Style: Greek neoclassicism
Period: approx. 1880–1930
Origin: Greece
Quantity: 2
Condition: good, with an attractive weathering consistent with architectural use. The red paint is partly worn and there are lime and mortar residues, especially at the bottom (photos 3 and 4). Small chips on the edges of the base and the hollow extension (photos 5 and 6). The lines in the hollow extension (photo 6) were formed deliberately during moulding and firing; they are not hairline cracks. No cracks or restorations. An old number in blue chalk on the back of one ornament (photo 5).

Price:
€ 295 (samen)

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