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Architectural Terracotta Griffin Gargoyle

$ 2587.19

Availability: 75 in stock
  • Original/Reproduction: Antique Original
  • Color: Red
  • Features: Salvage
  • Material: terra cotta

    Description

    Huge freestanding architectural terracotta griffin.
    Unglazed red.
    Unsure of origin and I am guessing Victorian England.
    This is the largest freestanding three dimensional piece I've had. Height 43", largest width 25", largest depth 29", plinth block 15.5x23"
    Photos should speak for themselves on how impressive this is, but I will describe some of the defects and repairs so it's clear there are several imperfections...
    The wings were originally fired separately and assembled with a mortar joint. These joints had pointing that has been partially removed and re-grouted. There are cracks and repairs in both wings near the body. Right wing shows some erosion and it looks like the upper portion may be an old, very skilled, replacement using cast material instead of terracotta; there is some granular material showing. There is a crack all the way around the neck that has been set with epoxy and grouted. The mortar /grout I used is a non-shrink construction grout tinted with brick color pigment to match as best as possible. Repairs can be identified if you are standing close and scrutinizing.
    There are also normal weather and age-related cracks that don't seem to affect the structure. There are also a few cracks in the plinth that appear to be original shrinkage cracks from firing that they may have filled with mortar at installation. The largest can be seen in the front and I have cleaned and repointed it.  When I acquired it, it had what looked to be white caulk all over. It appears someone had smeared a clear silicone-type sealant over every crack they saw and this sealant changed from clear to white at some point. This has been cleaned off to the best of my ability while trying to not affect the patina.
    I've listed many issues for your awareness but refer back to the photos please; it is still awesome.
    Freight is indicated as an option because I can transport it to some states. Local pickup is preferred. I am not comfortable shipping this with any freight carrier. It took two people to lift while one pulled it into a van.
    It may be possible for me to deliver it to you if you are on the east side of the country. Feel free inquire about transportation possibilities.