French Limestone Finial

A set of Italian limestone garden finials. Sculptural fruit forms with bananas, apples and grape clusters. Seven large and one small. In good condition for the age with minor losses....

Hand-carved from Italian limestone, this pair of ball finials on pedestals measure over four feet tall. Both balls are roughly 15 inches in diameter and sit atop a square plinth. Ben...

Hand-carved in four sections, this pair of Italian limestone acorn finials sit on robust octagonal plinths. The lower section of each ovate nut is encircled by a gadrooned calybium. ...

A gargoyle is an ornamental waterspout that protrudes from a roof and carries rainwater away from the walls of a building, protecting it from damage. This rare Gargoyle dates back to...

Vintage French terracotta artichoke finial, circa 1960s. Whitewash or similar finish with terracotta edges peeking through.   

Neogothic French pair of ceramic building finials.

A French stone architectural finial. This epis de faitage (or finial) stands approximately 19.25" in height, and features a primarily pyramidal-shaped b...

Antique French Limestone Trough; 18th Century Original Overview

This 18th-century antique French limestone trough (reference: OT213) is a rare, one-of-a-kind architectural salvage piece sourced from the rural countryside near Clermont-Ferrand, France. Carved by hand between 1760 and 1780, this substantial trough measures 201 cm wide × 130 cm deep × 71 cm high and weighs approximately 3,000 kg. The surface shows an authentic timeworn patina developed over centuries of use, enhancing its historical character.

Material & Craftsmanship

Crafted from solid French limestone (pierre calcaire), this trough was hand-carved from a single block. Its robust composition makes it highly resistant to weathering, while the natural stone’s subtle tonal variations and aged surface bear witness to its centuries-old origin.

Hand carving in the 18th century involved traditional chiseling techniques by skilled stonemasons, leaving subtle tool marks that add to its authenticity and charm.

Possible Uses in Landscape & Garden Design

Due to its size, weight, and historic appeal, this antique stone trough can serve as:

A focal point in a formal or rustic garden design An antique stone planter for trees, shrubs, or seasonal arrangements A water feature basin in a courtyard or landscaped estate A statement piece for heritage property restoration Historical Context

Stone troughs of this period were originally used in agricultural settings to hold water or feed for livestock. Their practical role and durable construction have ensured their survival for centuries, making them highly sought after by garden designers, landscape architects, and heritage property owners worldwide.

Why Choose De Opkamer?

De Opkamer is a recognised specialist in sourcing authentic European architectural...