Early 17th Century English Antique Carved Oak Panel / Corbel Depicting a Green Man

An early 17th-century English antique carved oak corbel in the form of a green man.

The Green Man is primarily interpreted as a symbol of rebirth, representing the cycle of new growth that occurs every spring.

This fine example is depicted with a canopy above and a scalloped-shaped frieze and drops. The green man is depicted with foliage on his forehead and jaw, flanked by scrolls to each corner.

Lovely colour and patination.

This displays very well.

Condition: Surface wear as per the images.  A further condition report is available upon request.

Size: Height 26 cm x Width 12 cm x Depth 9 cm (10 1/4″ x 4 3/4″ x 3 1/2″) 

Additional Historical Context:

The Green Man is a recurring motif in British and European architectural carving, often found in churches, chapels, and secular buildings from the medieval period through the 17th century. Characterized by a human face surrounded by or composed of foliage, the Green Man is widely interpreted as a symbol of rebirth, fertility, and the natural cycle.

• Origins: Though often associated with pagan traditions, the Green Man was adopted into Christian iconography during the Gothic and Tudor periods.

• Placement: Commonly found on misericords, corbels, roof bosses, and pew ends — especially in ecclesiastical settings.

• Symbolism: Represents the enduring relationship between humanity and nature, and the seasonal cycle of death and renewal.

• Craftsmanship: Early 17th-century examples, like this one, often show a transition from Gothic stylization to more naturalistic Jacobean carving.

This example, with its bold facial expression and flowing leafwork, is a textbook representation of the Green Man’s enduring presence in English woodcarving.