A striking and uncommon pair of late Victorian gilt composition curtain pole finials, beautifully modelled as opposing eagle heads with deeply carved feathered plumage, bold hooked beaks and expressive eyes.

Dating from the late nineteenth century, these impressive architectural ornaments retain their original gilt finish with an attractive aged patina acquired over more than a century. The pair are handed, with each eagle facing inward when mounted, demonstrating that they were designed specifically as a matching pair rather than identical castings.

Each finial retains its original threaded iron fixing screw, allowing them to be mounted to a substantial timber curtain pole, pelmet or architectural feature. Today they make superb decorative objects in their own right and would equally suit use in a period interior, library, country house or as part of an architectural salvage collection.

These are moulded in traditional Victorian composition (often referred to as "compo"), a mixture of plaster, chalk and animal glue developed to reproduce the appearance of finely carved wood at a fraction of the cost. The crisp feather detail and expressive modelling are characteristic of quality British decorative work from the period.

The original gilt surface displays honest wear consistent with age, adding considerable charm without detracting from their decorative impact.

Condition

Very good antique condition.

Original gilt finish with attractive age-related wear.

Minor surface rubbing and small losses commensurate with age.

Original threaded fixing screws remain in place.

No significant structural damage or major repairs noted.

A scarce surviving matched pair.

Dimensions: Length: 15 cm (excluding fixing screw), Height: 12.5 cm, Width: 10 cm

Price breakdown: Eagle Head Curtain Pole Finials - £245, Courier/Delivery Fee UK MAINLAND ONLY - £30