Ladies' Table. Adam Weisweiler. France

A magnificent Napoleon III style lady's table, decorated with gilt bronze mounts, a porcelain top and frieze panels in the manner of Adam Weisweiler (1746-1820). Rectangular in shape with projecting corners, pedestal legs, strict arches in their frames, and luxurious scenes depicted on porcelain panels, it combines the rigor of classicism with the playfulness of Rococo. It blends the comfort of wood, the austere majesty of acanthus leaves, laurel wreaths, and gilt bronze knobs with the boudoir charm of porcelain. An exceptional feature is the 35 x 58 cm porcelain top, crafted in the style of the Royal Sèvres Manufactory, which covers almost the entire surface of the table. It depicts a gallant pastoral scene of shepherdesses and a shepherd in a lakeside park, executed using polychrome painting techniques. Around the edges of the round medallions is a motif of amorous impulse, with lovers moving towards each other. The drawer front also features three pastoral scenes of strolls and amorous conversations. The sides of the desk are decorated with floral compositions on porcelain. A captivating and distinctive piece of furniture, a lady's writing desk! In it, the rigor of formal design coexists with the playful and lighthearted nature of the paintings. The desk drawer is fitted with a hidden lock. France, 19th century. Dimensions: 81 x 80 x 55.5 cm.