Empire mahogany guéridon table with black marble top and gilt bronze mounts, early 19th century

Empire mahogany guéridon table with black marble top and gilt bronzes, early 19th century

Elegant circular Empire-period guéridon in flame mahogany, raised on three tapering legs united by a triangular concave-profile undertier.

The top is inset with a black marble slab, framed by a finely moulded brass gallery.

The apron features a single drawer to the front, retaining its original gilt bronze pull.

The uprights are adorned with remarkable chiselled bronze appliqués depicting sphinx or caryatid heads in the antique manner — an emblematic motif of the Empire decorative repertoire inspired by Egypt and classical Antiquity.

The legs terminate in bronze sabots cast as lion's paws, a refined detail that further underscores the prestigious character of this piece.

The whole reflects a fine quality of craftsmanship and a harmonious balance of proportions.

This versatile piece will sit naturally at the end of a sofa, as a drawing-room table, a pedestal or a side table in both classical and contemporary interiors.

Period: early 19th century, Empire period
Materials: mahogany, black marble, gilt bronzes and brass
Dimensions:

Height: 72 cm
Diameter: 62 cm
Condition: good overall state of preservation. Condition consistent with age and use, with minor surface wear to the top and patina, in no way detracting from the decorative quality of the piece.

An elegant Empire side table combining the nobility of mahogany, the restraint of black marble and the richness of decorative bronzes in a typically French Neoclassical spirit.