Coats of arms – family crests and noble coats of arms – are created at Gerlach Woodcarving from the ground up, lovingly hand-carved. Every heraldic coat of arms – including civic and city arms, fraternity coats of arms and association emblems – is a true one-of-a-kind.
Heraldry and the study of coats of arms are part of the training of a sculptor and master woodcarver.
For centuries, hand-carved ornaments and woodcarvings have been a symbol of craftsmanship, elegance, and artistic refinement. Whether as decorative elements on historic furniture, intricate carvings in sacred architecture, or custom designs on doors, timber-framed houses, and ceiling beams – each ornament tells its own story. At the workshop of master sculptor Manfred Gerlach, such pieces are still created by hand – custom-made and truly one of a kind.
Hand-carved ornaments go beyond decoration – they reflect eras, emotions, and messages. From baroque acanthus leaves and gothic tracery to art nouveau reliefs – the design possibilities are nearly endless. Whether floral, figurative, geometric, or symbolic: each ornament is individually carved, often based on historical models or newly developed sketches.
Everything begins with an idea or reference – perhaps a furniture fragment, a historic photograph, or a simple sketch. A scaled drawing is created, the wood selected (often linden, oak, or walnut), and the entire carving is done by hand, using traditional tools and a deep understanding of depth, form, and style.
Whether carved moldings, capitals, ceiling rosettes, stylistic frames, furniture ornaments, or restoration elements – each piece is a handcrafted original, tailored to its architectural or decorative context.
Door and interior door carvings
Decorative ornaments for antique or new furniture
Restored elements for timber-framed houses
Carvings for altars, pulpits, or ceiling beams
Custom mirror and picture frames
Tailored interior design pieces or historical reproductions
Pricing depends on size, detail, wood type, and stylistic complexity. A simple rosette starts at a few hundred euros; elaborate reliefs or large custom pieces can cost significantly more. Every piece is calculated individually.
Master sculptor Manfred Gerlach has crafted unique woodcarvings for decades – from historic ornaments to modern style
interpretations. His work combines tradition, precision, and artistic flair, resulting in heirloom-quality pieces for
generations. His promise:
→ Authentic wood sculpture,
→ Custom work and originality,
→ Ornaments carved with hand and heart.
