Large Antique Wrought Iron and Bronze Double Sided Lectern From France, 19th C.

Known as a lutrin in France, this double-sided lectern is highly scrolled and pierced, making a unique and beautiful dais. The imposing French lutrin is comprised of wrought iron with some bronze embellishments (finials and roundel joineries) and dates to the 1800s, although the double-sided platform was added more recently based on the varying patina and welded construction (the bottom is pinned).

An amazing, banded arabesque of scrolls and counter curves emanate from an open roundel, forming the double-sided slant-top platform. The platform is designed to swivel on a rod that runs through it; a ball finial tops the rod, flanked by a pair of Vitruvian waves that form a majestic crest. There is an arbalete edge that extends off both sides of the platform, providing a stable base for holding music, artwork, or books.

Beneath the platform is a tripartite entablature with canted edges atop several large volutes. A second tripartite architrave is connected by a cylindrical column formed by multiple slender rods spaced about ¾ of an inch apart. The robust base consists of a similar arbalete as the platform, with added toupie finials, roundel joineries, and twisted prickets. All sections of the lectern have a wonderful brown and orange oxidation over a black finish. Our large wrought iron and bronze lectern was most likely used in a French church, possibly holding music for the choir or even large tomes. It would also make an interesting easel for an art display.