Fine spotted mahogany gueridon, richly chased and mercury-gilt bronze mounts (ormolu). The tapering uprights are adorned with antique-style female busts terminating in human feet. The tripod base is centred with a rosette and palmette motifs. The top is veneered with a superb Cuban spotted mahogany, a grey Blue Turquin marble on top with a moulded edge and trapezoidal cut. Early Empire period, 19th century, circa 1805.
Although Empire and early Restoration productions are sometimes difficult to distinguish, no ambiguity exists here: the strictly orthogonal lines directly inspired by Antique models, the quest for “archaeological precision”, and the martial, almost military character identify this gueridon as a pure Empire piece of fine quality
Unsigned, yet the excellence of the proportions, the refinement of the finishes and gilt bronzes, and the use of luxurious materials such as Cuban spotted mahogany and blue Turquin marble point to the work of a major Parisian cabinetmaker, close in spirit to Marcion, Jacob or Ligneureux.
A classic form of Empire decoration, intended for use as a salon or library table, a tea table or an occasional dining-room table. This example is particularly appealing for its rare 81cm diameter, easier to place than most Empire gueridons, which generally measure close to 90cm.
The table is in excellent condition. The French polish has been professionally cleaned and repolished by our cabinetmaker, leaving the surface clean and luminous. No veneer losses. A few very minor losses on the palmette motifs on the tripod base.
Height : 73cm
Diameter : 81cm
