Rare 1800s Scagliola Table: A Triumph Of Inlay And Colour

Rare 1800s Scagliola Table: A Triumph of Inlay and Colour This splendid coffee table is a remarkable example of artistic craftsmanship, featuring a richly decorated top using the scagliola (or “moonstone”) technique, a particular type of plaster-based inlay that imitates marble and semi-precious stones. The decorative scheme focuses on the central motif, the polychrome inlays and the elegance of the border. The centre of the table features a circular medallion with an interlaced motif, surrounded by a wide band with elaborate arabesques and scrolls in shades of ochre and sienna. All around are inserts reminiscent of precious stones such as lapis lazuli (blue) and malachite (green veined). Finally, the perimeter is defined by a three-dimensional geometric Greek fret (“meander”) running along the entire edge, enclosed by an outer frame in dark green faux marble. The top rests on a concave three-legged base made of fine wood with a warm reddish grain. The base opens into three branches ending in elegant, finely carved lion's paw feet, a typical feature of Empire or Neoclassical style furniture.

The tabletop has undergone some old restoration work on one side of the circumference and has some minor flaws consistent with its dating to the first half of the 1800s, probably of Tuscan manufacture.