A peacock carved in rust-red stone arches its long neck forward until its head bows low, a small hole pierced through below the beak. Behind it the stone stays a plain, square block, the end that was built into a haveli wall while the bird projected outward to carry an oil lamp. The surface keeps the pitted, pecked texture of hand carving, with iron-oxide reds and browns across the body and faint green mineral traces near the neck. This rare 18th century carved stone corbel comes from the merchant mansions of Rajasthan, and its large size and simple, almost abstract form make it stand apart from the smaller birds of the period.
At 10.5 inches long and 7.5 inches tall, it stands on its own as a sculpture on a console, mantel or shelf, leaning against the wall. The weight of the stone also makes it a firm bookend.
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Era: 18th century
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Origin: Rajasthan, India
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Material: Carved stone
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Size: 10.5"(W) x 2.5"(D) x 7.5"(H)
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Color: Rust red and brown with green mineral traces
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Condition: Wear consistent with age and use, part of its character and historical value. Weathered, rough surfaces and a rough-cut wall end.
This rare antique 18th century carved stone peacock corbel from Rajasthan, India once decorated a haveli wall and held an oil lamp. It measures 10.5 inches wide, 2.5 inches deep and 7.5 inches tall, in rust red stone. It works as a sculpture or bookend on a console, mantel or shelf.
Q: How were stone corbels set into haveli walls?
A: A stone corbel is carved from one piece, with a plain, rectangular block at the back that was built into the masonry. The carved front projected outward to support a balcony, ledge or oil lamp, and the weight of the wall above held it in place.
Q: Can you use an antique stone corbel as a bookend?
A: Yes. The solid stone is heavy enough to hold a stack of books upright, and the flat, square back sits steadily against the books. Set it at the end of a shelf or console so the curved neck and bowed head stay visible.
**Please bear in mind that colors of products shown may vary slightly from their original color due to monitor display settings or photography studio
