Lee Wright Antiques and Interiors

Description

A Large, Important Early 19th Century North Italian Console or Side Table of Monumental Proportions.

This outstanding table is of large size and retains its original marble top of 42mm thickness. The under tier of the table has its original faux marble paint to match the marble top and the artists involved have done a wonderful job. The table frame is painted white and parcel gilded and retains its original paintwork. Of rectangular form, the table has a large winged patera in the centre of the frieze and foliate designs to each end, with a row of repeating star motifs. Beautifully carved female masks wearing laurel wreaths symbolise victory and act as capitals on each of the four legs. There are harebell swags in gilt in the central panels of each leg and eagle motifs, presumably referencing Napoleon and his rule in Italy at that point, to the base. The undertier has a fine trellis design picked out in gilt running around three sides.

This is an important piece of furniture made in the early 19th century in the French Empire taste popularised in Italy when Napoleon and his family seized control. This period of dominance lasted from 1796-1814 and was particularly noticeable in the northern regions where this piece would have been made. Given the sophistication of design and quality of execution, it is likely that this piece was produced for an important client.