A Transitional parcel-gilt decorated and wrought iron console table third quarter 18th century

with a shaped and moulded figured brown marble top, the neo-classical frame decorated with applied acanthus and laurel

An interesting and elegant console in overall good condition. The gilding to the repoussé has tarnished and rubbed atmospherically and has some minor losses. The ebonised ironwork likewise has evidence of rubbing. The marble top with a moulded edge to both top and bottom. With old marks and scratches 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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

This rare console table elegantly alternates a wrought iron framework in polished iron with oil gilded decoration, skilfully combining the distinctive Louis XV elements, such as the scrolled supports, with the neoclassical elements of Greek key pattern, swags and festoons in what is typical of the Transitional period.

Iron furniture of this quality, made by the corporation des serruriers and dating from the second half of the 18th century, is extremely rare. While most surviving examples come from the provinces, this, as the quality of its design and execution suggest, was almost certainly made in Paris. The only two known identical tables, also with a red Pyrenean marble top, were with Didier Aaron, Paris, in 2000 (catalogue VI, n. 36).

The work of the serruriers was largely anonymous, one of the few exceptions being that of Pierre Deumier, whose polished steel console-table for the Royal Palace in Warsaw, from drawings by Victor Louis and Jean-Louis Prieur, provided the model for a small group which possibly came out of his workshop: two console tables, demonstrating the juxtaposition of neoclassical friezes and beautifully detailed gilt swags, are now at the Musée Camondo, illustrated by Gasc and Mabille, op. cit., p. 62; another in the Getty Museum, illustrated by Bremer-David, op. cit., p. 55.