"Empire Period Mahogany Console"
An elegant Empire period console table in solid mahogany, resting on four sculpted lion's paw feet with powerful and finely detailed anatomy. The side supports, treated as backed pieces, lend the whole a strong architectural presence, characteristic of the finest Parisian productions of the early 19th century. The console features a mirrored back, a remarkable and unusual element designed to amplify the light and emphasize the monumentality of the piece. This feature, typical of prestigious consoles, allows for a complete appreciation of the architecture of the base and the lower stretcher, while placing the piece within a sophisticated decorative style inherited from Antiquity. The gray veined marble top, cut with restraint, is perfectly proportioned to the structure and harmonizes beautifully with the chromatic depth of the mahogany. France, Paris, circa 1805-1815, attributable to Bellangé. Some wear consistent with age, marble restoration.