South Netherlandish, circa 1600

private collection, Ghent

The lectern is composed of sections of wood; joints are visible throughout. The horizontal beam on which the book is meant to rest is probably replaced. The base may also be later. There is some stable splitting to the wood consistent with material, including to the inside of the proper left wing, along the proper right wing, to the orb, and to one of the three consoles at the base. Some of the sections have been connected using pegs and nails; some of these are visible while others have been covered with fill, for example between the wings of the cherubs. A few sections have been reattached, including the tip of the beak, and part of the lobed decoration just under the orb. There are two rectangular inserts to the tail, and there is a slit to the chest of the eagle. The entire lectern was probably re-lacquered around the 19th century. Otherwise the condition of the lectern is good with some minor wear and dirt consistent with age.
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