Escalier de Cristal A Directoire style gilt-bronze mounted mahogany and faux-bronze decorated center table Paris, circa 1885

surmounted by a black marble inset top, stamped twice to the frame ESCALIER DE CRISTAL/PARIS.

In good condition and presentation, the finely cast reeded gilt-bronze border with wear to the top edge consistent with touching; the center table is sturdy; scratches and small loses to the faux bronze paint to term figures showing wood especially to noses and drapes as well as to the extremities of the paw feet; the mahogany veneers with minor scratches, nicks and dents consistent with age and use.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The company was first established in 1802 by Madame Désarnaud. She exhibited at the Exposition Nationale in the Louvre in 1819. The business was based in the Palais Royal and it was the first manufacturer to mount crystal objects with gilt-bronze. L' Escalier supplied lamps, vases, clocks and other objets d'art to most of the aristocratic European families. The firm was appointed fournisseur breveté du Roi in 1819 as well as to the Duc de Berry and the garde meuble de la Couronne. In 1872, the business was acquired by Emile Pannier and moved from their Palais Royal Galleries to Nouvel Opera region at the corner of rue Scribe and rue Auber. In 1885, George and Henry Pannier succeded their father and gradually developed a company which became noted for the quality of its production. The company supplied furniture and all manner of luxurious objects often having manufacturers supplying individual components which were then assembled to the firm's own design. The firm boasted such distinguished designers as Lièvre and Viardot and soon developed a recognisable style, often looking to the Orient for inspiration. The firm's work can be found in public collections such as the Musée du Louvre and the Musée d' Orsay, Paris.