catalog text
EMPIRE STYLE BRASS AND BRONZE MOUNTED ROSEWOOD AND INLAID-MAHOGANY COLUMNAR PEDESTAL
France, circa early 20th century
Item # 407FPK10A
This gorgeous and rather powerful columnar pedestal features a circular mahogany plank top raised over a straight column surrounded with a bold reeding dressed in mahogany veneers that are cut to create diagonal rays. The upper portion has a raised ring veneered with vibrant and chaotic rosewood with elaborate stepped brass-work surrounding handsomely cast and chiseled gilt-bronze rosettes. The lower portion includes rising bellflower inlays along each of the reeds over a bold bronze ring with crisscrossed ribbons set at equal intervals over a squared rosewood veneered base with inverted corners. The result is a very eye-catching array with great color that sets a nice stage for the sculpture it is intended to raise.
Measurements: 43 1/2" H x 12 1/2" W/D (at the bottom); 10 1/8" diameter (top)
Condition Report:
Scattered restorations around the base veneers with areas of splicing, cracking of the veneers and touchups. Old tarnished bronze mounts with discoloration and natural patina. The surface presents overall in "good" condition, but far from pristine with an overall pleasing surface patina to the French polish and scattered but attractive surface history throughout - it could certainly be refinished to a pristine presentation, but would likely lose some of its charm. Overall a powerful presentation - incredibly sturdy and capable of raising a sculpture of substantial weight without concern.