catalog text
HOLLYWOOD REGENCY GILTWOOD LOW TABLE WITH INCISED POLYCHROME PAINTED TOP
Circa 1940s
Item # 403LVB18M
An exuberant design from the Hollywood Regency era, this fine low coffee table showcases a perfect blend of a subdued elegance and personality. The top is a stunning display of eclectic polychromed motifs with rich incised outlines and details throughout, the rich surface being chaotic and asymmetrical in its exquisite artwork.
The dark ground is full of swirling vines and foliage around beautifully detailed blooming flowers, the total darkness of the surrounding making the painted panels absolutely pop in the interior. These panels feature like something from a dreamscape with bugs, odd shapes, geometric forms and a trio of organic vessels on the bottom, all surrounding the primary central motif of two floral bouquets, one in a large swollen baluster vase and one in a low planter.
The table itself is a perfect compliment to the top, the wonderful giltwood worn through to reveal the red bole underlying the gold and below that the burnished gesso. It is simple and most pleasing with an undulating skirt and shell forms in the center of each side raised on undulating legs of a more typical cabriole form with bold knees.
Highly individual and well considered, the table is a perfect balance of art and function - a canvas that is meant to be lived with and touched.
Measurements: 52 1/2" W x 26 3/4" D x 16" H
Condition Report:
Surface wear and distress throughout, including one more notable area of loss on the painted top with an old gummy filler covering the loss; rubbing wear throughout the gilding including light chips and losses; sturdy in all joints; a positively gorgeous table, ready to place.