Rare Japonism Faux Bamboo Napoléon III Console Table, Circa 1885

An important carved, black lacquered and giltwood console table raised on four finely tur-ned faux bamboo columns joined by an elegant architectural undertier centered by a circular platform.
The trompe-l’œil red frieze is adorned with a striking high-relief mascaron depicting an Oriental dignitary, rendered in a refined Western interpretation of Sino-Japanese iconography. The textured ground, evoking Japanese gold-dusted lacquer (maki-e), enhances the richness of the decoration. The spandrels and frieze display the bold chromatic vocabulary typical of Parisian Japonism: deep black lacquer, gold leaf gilding, and vivid red geometric friezes.
The use of faux bamboo columns — one of the defining motifs of high-quality Japonist furniture — allows this piece to be stylistically associated with leading Parisian workshops active during the height of the Japonism movement in the late 19th century.
Paris, circa 1870–1885
Napoleon III period

Attributed to the School of Gabriel Viardot (1830-1904), Perret et Vibert, La Maison des Bambous (1879-1994)
A sculptural and visually powerful example of French Japonist furniture, created for a so-phisticated and cosmopolitan clientele during one of the most innovative moments in European decorative arts.

Provenance
Probably from a European private collection, acquired on the Paris art market during the 20th century.
Very good overall condition. Attractive original patina. Lacquer and gilding well preserved.