17th-Century Antique Carved Oak Lion Sejant Finial | Antique Heraldic Sculpture

A large 17th-century carved oak newel post finial in the form of a stylised lion sejant. Rich in heraldic symbolism, this architectural fragment evokes strength and dignity—perfect for collectors of antique wood carvings, stair furniture, and Tudor–Stuart period interiors..

The lion is portrayed sitting upright on his haunches. His mane down-swept, reminiscent of the gentleman’s hairstyle of the day. His mouth is part-open. The sculpture wears a collar which is secured to the ground by way of four twisted cables/ties. Supported overall on a square, stepped base carved with lunettes and terminating on ball feet.

This sculpture displays incredibly well.

Historical Context: Lion Sejant in English Carving

The lion sejant—a heraldic pose where the lion sits upright on its haunches—has symbolised courage, nobility, and guardianship since the 12th century, notably adopted during the reign of Richard I. In English wood carving, especially during the Tudor and Stuart periods, such motifs were used in staircase finials, ecclesiastical furnishings, and civic buildings to convey lineage, loyalty, and strength.

Provenance – Unknown.

Condition – Please refer to the images. Good overall.

Size – Height 50 cm (19 1/2″)