We’d like to share some exciting news regarding a pair of 18th century demilune card tables in our collection!
The tables once formed part of the David Roche collection in Australia. Mr. Roche had purchased them at the Grosvenor House Antiques Fair in 1992, where they were sold as being of English origin. However, we now suspect a Russian origin for various reasons.
The labrum, or basin, was used as a water vessel in ancient Roman bath complexes and gardens. With the construction of aqueducts, water could be carried for miles and its use was no longer restricted to basic necessities, but could now be enjoyed for recreation and decorative purposes. It is apparent from ancient marble specimens and wall frescoes that ornamental fountains were popular additions to the garden landscapes of antiquity.
We love zoomorphism and today we’re bringing you another piece that comprises several animalier elements, including one of our favorites- the serpent! This interesting carved walnut and faux bronze circular center table, circa 1820, is an example of Italian design in the early 19th century, which had been greatly influenced by French taste after the Napoleonic wars carried the Empire style across the continent. The base is comprised of four zoomorphic legs headed with lion masks and terminating in hairy paw feet. The legs are joined together by an x-shaped stretcher in the form of four serpents. The serpent heads meet in the center to support a sphere, while their tails appear to pierce each leg from the inside and continue on the outside. Figure 1 and 2 are related circular tables from southern Italy, also made in the first quarter of the 19h century, with zoomorphic legs that are connected by serpents.