Coffee Table Designed By Alphonse Gouffe, Late 19th Century

Marquetry coffee table attributed to Maison Gouffé, Paris

Period: Late 19th century

An elegant, free-form parlor table crafted from precious wood veneer and richly adorned with chiseled and gilded bronze.
This refined piece, bearing a plaque from Maison Gouffé in Paris, exemplifies the craftsmanship of the great Parisian cabinetmakers of the second half of the 19th century, renowned for their Louis XV- and Louis XVI-inspired furniture intended for a prestigious clientele.

The scalloped tabletop is decorated with remarkable geometric marquetry, accented by a large central medallion featuring a stylized floral design, crafted from stained woods and contrasting wood species.
This radiant composition, executed with great finesse, is framed by an elegant molded bronze gallery that harmoniously highlights the contour of the top while protecting it.

The delicately cut rim is veneered with rosewood arranged in alternating leaves, forming an elegant herringbone pattern.
The four corners are adorned with superb chiseled bronze finials featuring rocaille and foliage motifs, which extend elegantly down the legs.

The table rests on four finely curved Louis XV-style legs, finished with delicate, finely chiseled gilded bronze feet, lending a touch of lightness and refinement to the overall design.

The interior design reflects the refined purpose of this parlor table.
It opens on one side via a side drawer, fitted with dovetail joints and featuring a bronze pull knob.
On the opposite side is an elegant sliding writing desk, covered in its original brown leather with a gilded frame featuring fine metalwork.
This writing desk lifts up via an internal rack, revealing a hidden storage compartment designed to hold papers, correspondence, or writing accessories.

The piece is crafted with exceptional cabinetmaking quality: precise joinery, carefully fitted veneers, finely chiseled bronze fittings, and particularly harmonious proportions.

The “Gouffé à Paris” plaque is a mark of quality.
The Gouffé workshop, founded by Alphonse Gouffé, was among the most renowned Parisian workshops of the 19th century for crafting luxury furniture inspired by the great 18th-century models, which were regularly showcased at the World’s Fairs.

This table is the perfect piece for a living room, though it can also serve as a side table, a sewing table, or a small writing desk, all while offering remarkable decorative appeal.

In very fine condition
Perfectly preserved marquetry, original bronze fittings, complete bronze rail, and a fully functional writing compartment mechanism.
Beautiful patina and period finish.

Given the quality of craftsmanship, the “Gouffé à Paris” signature, its condition, and the presence of its secret writing compartment, this parlor table is a testament to quality. 
Its tabletop measures 40 CM x 30 CM
It stands 71.5 CM tall