What is a corbel used for?

Historically, a corbel projected from a wall to support heavy loads such as roof timbers, balconies, or projecting upper floors. In domestic interiors, they support mantelpieces, shelves, and heavy cornices. Today, many people mount them as decorative wall brackets or display them as standalone sculptures to add architectural interest to plain walls.

How do I date an antique corbel?

Dating relies on identifying the timber species, the tool marks left by the maker, and the prevailing artistic style of the period. For instance, seventeenth-century pieces often feature heavy oak with deep, robust chisel work, whereas Victorian items frequently utilise walnut with finer, sharper detailing. Comparing the decorative motifs, such as Baroque scrolls or Renaissance revival figures, against documented period examples helps narrow down the decade of creation.

Are these corbels strong enough to hold shelves?

Many items listed as wall brackets or building brackets were originally engineered to bear substantial architectural weight. Solid timber construction in oak or walnut provides inherent structural strength. However, load capacity depends heavily on the soundness of the antique wood and the method used to mount the piece to a modern wall.

What is the difference between a corbel and a wall bracket?

A corbel strictly refers to a projecting block or bracket that historically carried structural weight within a building's architecture. A wall bracket is a broader term that includes any decorative shelf support fixed to a vertical surface. In practice, antique dealers often use the terms interchangeably when describing carved wooden supports salvaged from period properties.