{"title":"8.26 Artful Furnishings","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"sevres-porcelain-mounted-bureau-plat","title":"Sèvres Porcelain-Mounted Bureau Plat","description":"Form and function converge in this exceptional Louis XV-style bureau plat graced with eight elegant Sèvres porcelain plaques. Framing these delightful, hand-painted floral and fowl-themed plaques is a network of exquisite gilt bronze. Supporting the leather-topped table are graceful cabriole legs, a hallmark of fine Louis XV taste, that are crowned by gilt bronze caryatids and terminate in gilt bronze mounts. What makes this desk even more stunning is the inclusion of three concealed drawers that are opened only by the spring-loaded secret release mechanisms located underneath.\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nThe first porcelain mounted furnishings appeared sometime in the mid-18th century in the shops of the foremost Parisian art dealers. These furnishings successfully, and quite beautifully, married renowned Sèvres porcelain with fine furniture to create a new segment of the decorative arts that appealed greatly to the aristocracy, especially women. The Duchesse de Mazarin, Comtesse du Barry, Marie-Antoinette and the Grand Duchess Maria Feodorovna of Russia are all known to have exquisite collections of Sèvres-mounted furniture. This ornate writing desk, or bureau plat, is a stunning 19th-century example of this treasured decorative art. \n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nDemand for porcelain-mounted furniture was successfully met by Sèvres substantial team of gifted porcelain artisans, particularly flower painters, whose remarkably intricate and elegant floral motifs were the most often requested to adorn these brilliant furnishings. Today, the greatest collections of Sèvres porcelain furniture are held by the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, the J. Paul Getty Museum in Los Angeles, the Wallace Collection in London and the famed Louve in Paris. \n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nCirca 1880\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n53\" wide x 31\" deep x 32\" high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41579966496903,"sku":"29-5188","price":78500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/29-5188_1.png?v=1717920580"},{"product_id":"porcelain-and-onyx-pedestal-by-ribot","title":"Porcelain and Onyx Pedestal by Ribot","description":"Lovely Vienna-style porcelain and creamy white onyx are combined in this wonderful decorative pedestal by Ribot. Taking the form of an architectural column, this elegant objet d'art boasts vivid hand-painting on the porcelain plaques of maidens in Greco-Roman dress. The entire piece is accentuated with fine ormolu mounts.\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nSigned \"Ribot\"\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nCirca 1900\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n44 1\/2\" high\n ","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43673032097927,"sku":"29-6339","price":34500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/29-6339_1_e0ecb6b3-8ca6-4e5a-b270-1804b48e5869.png?v=1769760120"},{"product_id":"aubusson-parlor-set","title":"Aubusson Parlor Set","description":"This gracious Louis XV-style parlor set is richly upholstered in the most exceptional hand-woven Aubusson tapestries. The best examples are considered to be those with figural motifs, and this particular suite is distinguished by pastoral scenes of both people and animals, the most rare and desirable of all. Aubusson tapestries have been recognized for their superb quality for centuries, and are increasingly difficult to find in such pristine condition. A fine walnut suite such as this, comprised of a sofa and four armchairs, was extremely labor intensive to create, therefore available only to the wealthiest households. Today, it is extremely rare to find a large suite retaining such high levels of quality, condition and elegance. Combining the talents of both the ébéniste and tapestry weaver with exceptional style and sophistication, this set is a superior find. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The Aubusson region was the leading manufacturer of fine tapestries since their emergence in the 14th century, with an impressive repertoire that made them the first choice among 18th-century French nobility. Because they favored a certain degree of harmony in their décor, a room whose walls were hung with classically-inspired tapestries would naturally be paired with furnishings bearing similar woven motifs. The late 19th century witnessed a great revival of these early Aubusson furnishings amongst the elite. This suite is a particularly fine example of the Louis XV style, exhibiting the highest quality craftsmanship in all respects.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nCirca 1870\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nSofa: 76” wide x 32” deep x 48” high\u003cbr\u003e\nArmchairs: 29” wide x 27” deep x 41” high\n ","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41239051010183,"sku":"29-4050","price":148500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/29-4050_1.png?v=1712739547"},{"product_id":"dutch-bureau-bookcase","title":"Dutch Bureau Bookcase","description":"This magnificent and important Dutch mahogany bureau bookcase is exuberantly carved and adorned with superb figural carvings, impressive scrolled feet and elaborate applied decoration. Such lavish works as this were considered status symbols and were much more ornate than their English counterparts. The cabinet is in excellent condition. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1840 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 68\" wide x 24\" deep x 105\" high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41239055499399,"sku":"27-3740","price":34500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/27-3740_1.png?v=1712739494"},{"product_id":"louis-xvi-style-ormolu-pedestal","title":"Louis XVI-Style Ormolu Pedestal","description":"Tremendous size and exquisite ormolu detailing distinguish this important 19th-century Louis XVI-style French pedestal. Crafted of richly grained hardwood, this outstanding fixture boasts bold ormolu mounts of exceptional quality from top to bottom. Standing just over six feet tall and raised upon ormolu lion’s paw feet, the monumental and strong pedestal was no doubt created to display a work of art, such as a fine sculpture or bronze masterpiece. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1880 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 27 1\/2” wide x 17 1\/2” deep x 72 1\/4” high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41239053893767,"sku":"29-4793","price":44500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/29-4793_1_0db9f559-067d-4a5d-8cfb-3c0e181ff70f.png?v=1712739513"},{"product_id":"louis-xvi-giltwood-console-table","title":"Louis XVI Giltwood Console Table","description":"Fashioned in the Louis XVI style, this magnificent French console table has an opulent, yet classical feel. Crafted of luxurious giltwood with a marble top, the half-moon table is bedecked with Neoclassical mounts that accent the table’s intricate design and fluted legs. Crafted with subtlety and a meticulous attention to detail, this table epitomizes all of the best elements of this refined style.\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nBased on the furniture and decor created during the reign of French King Louis XVI (1774-1789), the Louis XVI style experienced a comeback in the 1860s in Europe and the eastern part of the United States. This revival reintroduced a formal classicism to furniture with an emphasis on simplicity, straight lines and symmetry. Slenderness of proportion was once again favored in furniture, as well as delicate classical motifs and understated luxury. Today, this elegant and timeless style remains highly prized.\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nCirca 1860 \n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n38 1\/4\" high x 43\" wide x 21 3\/4\" deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41237969535111,"sku":"30-4905","price":24500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/30-4905_1.png?v=1717921305"},{"product_id":"louis-xvi-dressing-table-by-paul-sormani","title":"Louis XVI Dressing Table by Paul Sormani","description":"Eloquent marquetry and faithful interpretation of the Louis XVI taste characterize this beautiful 19th-century dressing table by Paul Sormani. A graceful oval-shaped vanity mirror tops this impeccable design, ornamented with an ormolu framework of winged seraphim bearing striking candelabras. Delicate tendrils of ormolu-cast flora and cherubic characters adorn the clawfoot legs and drawers. Each of the table’s three console drawers are armed with locks, ensuring precious contents are kept safe and sound. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Venetian cabinetmaker Paul Sormani established his Parisian boutique specializing in crafting meubles de luxe, or “small fancy furniture,” in 1847 and soon became a fashionable favorite of French royalty. Sormani’s popularity among nobility and gentry soared after being commissioned by Empress Eugenie, wife and consort of Napoléon III, to decorate the royal palace. The Sormani House exhibited furnishings at the 1855 World's Fair in Paris where the firm's designs were awarded a silver medal and again at the 1862 World's Fair in London, placing third with a bronze medal. While exhibiting at the 1867 World Expo in Paris, Sormani's designs won yet another silver medal and were described in these terms by judges: “All production reveals quality of execution of the first order.” \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1870 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Signed “Sormani Paris \/ 134, Rd Haussmann” \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 45 3\/4“ wide x 25 3\/4” deep x 64“ high ","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41238278733959,"sku":"30-9904","price":54500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/30-9904_1_d41ab5f3-bb77-470b-bb65-4c64560b8769.png?v=1717921746"},{"product_id":"louis-xvi-style-french-caned-settees","title":"Louis XVI-Style French Caned Settees","description":"This exquisite pair of 19th-century French settees captures the spirit of the Louis XVI style. The versatile chairs are exquisitely crafted with gracefully curved, double caned seat backs, while bronze ormolu accents add a hint of luxury to the carved wood frames. Beautifully embellished throughout, the settees rest on four classically-inspired reed legs. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Renowned for its old-world refinement, Louis XVI-style furniture originated during the reign of Louis XV of France in the mid-18th century. Highly ornamental, yet elegant, Louis XVI furniture was more feminine and subdued than in previous years, and was constructed with gracious curving lines from crest to foot. In addition, cast and gilded bronze mounts were added, accentuating the elegance and luxury of these intricately crafted pieces. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 19th century \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 37\" wide x 25\" deep x 33\" high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43693436993671,"sku":"30-7610","price":22850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/30-7610_1_58a3a37a-671d-44c7-b547-f38a3fab6ff9.png?v=1769787533"},{"product_id":"19th-century-french-secretaire-by-durand","title":"19th-Century French Secrétaire by Durand","description":"Superior craftsmanship and intricate marquetry characterize this rare secrétaire by Gervais-Maximilien-Eugène Durand, one of the most popular French \u003cem\u003eébénistes\u003c\/em\u003e of the 19th century. This is an exceptional example of his work, bringing together beautiful materials and a practical, yet elegant design. The compact Louis XV-inspired form features two visible shelves, as well as two others cleverly hidden by a false front at the base. Beautifully embellished with Durand's distinctive Rococo-style ormolu mounts, the secrétaire rests on four curved feet enveloped by ornamented bronze. \n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nCelebrated as one of the greatest ébénistes of luxury furniture at the turn of the century, Durand was a master at creating original designs inspired by the Louis XV and Rococo styles. He established the firm of Maison Durand in 1870, and he soon thereafter received international recognition when the Maison triumphed at the 1889 Paris \u003cem\u003eExposition Universelle\u003c\/em\u003e. Today, high-quality, signed examples such as this are becoming increasingly scarce finds.\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nStamped \"G. Durand\"\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nCirca 1880\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n46 1\/8\" high x 24\" wide x 11\" deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41238230499463,"sku":"30-7986","price":29850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/30-7986_1.png?v=1717921645"},{"product_id":"pietra-paesina-specimen-table-attributed-to-gillows","title":"Pietra Paesina Specimen Table Attributed to Gillows","description":"Pietra Paesina is one of the most scarce and wondrous stones on Earth, and the surface of this exceptional early 19th-century center table is inset with one of the rarest and most monumental examples of the natural wonder known to exist. The stone is set into a majestic rosewood base attributed to the renowned firm of Gillows of Lancaster and London, the favorite furniture makers of nobility and royalty throughout England. From the unique patterning of the precious Pietra Paesina to the magnificent carved central column and lion’s paw feet, this table evokes a sense of luxury and privilege. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Pietra Paesina, also known as “ruin marble” and “landscape marble,” hails primarily from the Northern Apennine mountains near Florence, Italy. The stone is believed to have formed approximately 40 to 50 million years ago under infrequent and precise geological conditions whereby limestone deposits deep within the Earth became fractured by the movement of tectonic plates. These fractures were then filled over time with iron and manganese hydroxide deposits from groundwater that were later sealed by the deposition of calcite crystals. When cut, these mineral deposits within the stone formed landscape-like images that appear to resemble ancient ruins or mountainous terrains.   \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This marvelous stone was discovered sometime in the 16th century and immediately became desired by royalty and wealthy connoisseurs around the world, with the first being the royal Medici of Renaissance Italy. This prestigious family had Florentine artisans craft from this stone furniture and interior ornaments to adorn their palaces. Finding large specimens of Pietra Paesina as displayed in this center table is nearly impossible since most known examples are small enough to fit in your hand. The stone must be cut in order to see if the desired patterning is present, which is not guaranteed. If a pattern is present, by the time it is cut and polished, very little of the stone remains, making the top of this table a true marvel of the natural world.   \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Furnishings by Gillows are held in the highest regard, and the opportunity to acquire a one-of-a-kind masterpiece by this esteemed company is indeed a rarity. Hardstone pieces such as this were popular among the British aristocracy during the 19th century, as they displayed the wealth and worldly knowledge of those that owned them. Such hardstones were often acquired by those participating in their Grand Tour of Europe. They would be brought back to England and incorporated into some of the finest furnishings of the period, so there is little wonder why Gillows would have been commissioned for such an important work.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e  Founded in 1730 by Robert Gillow, the Gillows firm operated successfully as a family-owned business well into the 19th century. Originally operating from Lancaster, England, Gillows was especially noted for their quality of workmanship and innovative designs. No other firm in the country had managed to gain as far-reaching and prestigious a level of patronage as that of the Gillows firm, primarily due to the quality and classic nature of their furnishings. The Gillows firm was especially popular with the English nobility and with powerful religious figures throughout the country. Clients included the Earls of Wilton, the Duke of Norfolk, the Earl of Surrey and the Archbishop of York. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Made by one of the most famed furniture makers of the 19th century with one of the rarest stones in the world, this center table is a masterpiece of furniture making worthy of a museum.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1820 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Provenance: \u003cbr\u003e Hailing from an important English titled estate where it has been since it was commissioned. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 36\" diameter x 29\" high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41238263758983,"sku":"30-8715","price":198500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/30-8715_1.png?v=1717921683"},{"product_id":"18th-century-mahogany-irish-games-table","title":"18th-Century Mahogany Irish Games Table","description":"This exceptional Irish games table is as functional as it is beautiful. Crafted of Cuban mahogany, it serves as a console table when not in use, but the top folds out to reveal a green baize playing surface, supported by a gate leg, perfect for evening card games. Places on the board are designated for cards and chips, and a small drawer offers convenient storage. A gem of the Georgian style, this table 's design is simple and elegant. A shell ornament graces the frieze, and the front cabriole legs are adorned with ornate relief carving at the knees and terminate in lifelike ball-and-claw feet. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The extreme socio-economic polarity that existed in Ireland for centuries resulted in a large population of poor and a small percentage of elite, with virtually no known middle class. This class structure was reflected in the furniture created during this time. While most did not have access to quality pieces, the privileged class commissioned furnishings, such as this remarkable table, that were unmatched in quality, crafted of the finest materials and exhibited an extraordinary level of artistry. Since few could afford such exceptional furnishings, not many were ever created, making this table an exceptional find. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1760 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Closed: 36 1\/4\" wide x 18 1\/2\" deep x 29 1\/8\" high\u003cbr\u003e Open: 36\" deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41239105208455,"sku":"30-0595","price":22850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/30-0595_1_4ee09820-0bbd-4148-85ad-b14b7a4a7a75.png?v=1712738031"},{"product_id":"french-meuble-de-milieu-by-grimard","title":"French Meuble de Milieu by Grimard","description":"Enveloped in sumptuous parquetry and doré bronze, this majestic Louis XIV-style French \u003cem\u003emeuble de milieu\u003c\/em\u003e displays the characteristics of incredible quality and masterful workmanship synonymous with the Parisian firm of Maison Grimard. Crafted of sumptuous kingwood, the parquetry door opens to reveal six compartments used to store linens, such as those for the bedroom or even the dining table. The masterful woodwork is flawlessly balanced by intricate doré bronze mounts in the form of Neoclassical floral swags, garlands, plumes and acanthus scrolls. The delicately spiraled doré bronze feet give the cabinet a sense of lightness and balance. Enhanced by a beautiful rouge Campan marble top, this cabinet is an excellent example of late 19th-century French furniture craftsmanship at its finest. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The firm of G. Grimard produced some of the finest \u003cem\u003emeubles d'art\u003c\/em\u003e, or fine art furniture, during the second half of the 19th century in Paris. A frequent and tremendously successful exhibitor at the great international exhibitions, Grimard's body of work consists primarily of Louis XVI and Neoclassical-inspired creations that consistently exhibit the highest quality workmanship. Today, his pieces are incredibly rare and highly sought after.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1880 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 34 1\/2\" wide x 18 1\/2\" deep x 58 1\/2\" high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41237959409799,"sku":"30-4699","price":88500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/30-4699_1.png?v=1717921299"},{"product_id":"napoleon-iii-ebonized-wood-pedestals","title":"Napoleon III Ebonized Wood Pedestals ","description":"This pair of Napoleon III pedestals exhibits exceptional artistry and craftsmanship. Constructed of ebonized wood, these monumental stands evoke the best elements of 18th- and 19th-century design, with doré bronze mounts, painted porcelain plaques and black Nero marble tops. Boasting an elegant neoclassical shape, these pedestals stand just over four feet tall and shimmer with mother-of-pearl inlay. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The Napoleon III period, sometimes called Second Empire, incorporated the best elements of France’s illustrious historical styles. Usually crafted of mahogany and ebony, furniture of the period was adorned with inlay of box, holly, pear and walnut woods, as well as porcelain, tortoiseshell, mother-of-pearl and ormolu ornaments. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Largely due to the influence of Emperor Napoleon III, who wished to have his name associated with the classical grandeur of Rome and cement his place in French history, the decorative style of the mid- to late-19th century is distinguished by a vast mixture of styles from previous centuries. Eclecticism reigned as craftsmen revisited the most opulent styles from decades past and created their own elaborate versions. Artisans were inspired by the Renaissance age, Boulle furniture of the Baroque period and the Louis XVI style. These pedestals represent the opulent and eclectic designs of this popular era. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1870 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003e 16 1\/4” wide x 11 3\/4” deep x 49 1\/2” high\u003c\/b\u003e","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41239088464007,"sku":"29-8344","price":34850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/29-8344_1_b1dcba5a-4232-4153-8a75-3551834dc5a6.png?v=1712738634"},{"product_id":"exhibition-satinwood-sideboard-by-wright-and-mansfield","title":"Exhibition Satinwood Sideboard by Wright and Mansfield","description":"This extraordinary sideboard is attributed to the famed Wright and Mansfield and was almost certainly created specifically for the important 19th-century international exhibitions. Satinwood, ebony, marble and doré bronze of superior quality are combined with a classical theme culminating in this neoclassical masterpiece. The 19th century marked an era dominated by significant global exhibitions, prompting artisans from diverse fields to push their creative boundaries in crafting exceptionally beautiful and pioneering works. These masterpieces were showcased before an international audience, frequently graced by nobility and royalty from various corners of the globe. The pinnacle of the firm's craftsmanship and artistry, this exquisite sideboard would certainly have been a showpiece for Wright and Mansfield. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Wright and Mansfield was an important and prominent Victorian firm that produced many of the finest pieces of English furniture ever made. They served as Cabinetmakers to Queen Victoria, and several of their pieces are housed and on display at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. Widely recognized for their superb craftsmanship and innovative designs, they received acclaim for their works exhibited in the 1862 London International Exhibition, the 1867 Paris Exposition Universelle and the 1876 Philadelphia World's Fair, where they exhibited a similar cabinet. In fact, they won the only gold medal awarded for British Furniture at the 1867 Paris Exhibition. The intricate inlay displayed on this side cabinet is the work of an exceptionally accomplished artisan. In terms of workmanship, materials and design, the exhibition sideboard is a work of art. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This sideboard is pictured in two well-known books regarding antiques including \u003cem\u003eThe Antiques Buyer\u003c\/em\u003e by David Dickinson, page 169, and \u003cem\u003eHistory of Furniture\u003c\/em\u003e by Michael Huntley, page 182. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1860 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 71\" wide x 21\" deep x 86 1\/2\" high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42980851318919,"sku":"29-0059","price":285000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/29-0059_1.png?v=1754076290"},{"product_id":"louis-xiv-style-console-table","title":"Louis XIV-Style Console Table","description":"This Italian console table is exemplary of the grand architectural furnishings that were popular amongst the upper classes during the late 18th and early 19th century in both Italy and England. Carved with the opulent, weighty decoration that characterized the Baroque period, this table is masterfully crafted in the Louis XIV style. With a solid red marble top completing the design, this console would make a grand statement in the well-appointed home. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Certainly a special commission, the base is lavishly carved in stunning detail from a rich hardwood with traces of gilding. Acanthus leaves and floral swags curve around the base, while four beautiful maidens lend support to the tabletop. Other striking decorative elements include a lion’s mask and a shield surrounded by oak branches, a traditional symbol of strength, stability and nobility. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This console table perfectly illustrates the design conventions that dictated late 18th- and early 19th-century interiors. The console table reached the height of fashion during this period and was often considered more a part of the architecture than merely a piece of furniture. It was believed that no single element of the interior stood alone, with everything from upholstery to hardware serving to unify the room's design. A console table, then, was considered an integral part of the wall and the entire room. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1840 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 96\" wide x 21 1\/4\" deep x 42 3\/8\" high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41238593634439,"sku":"31-3395","price":84500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-3395_1_981b42c8-bd6a-4c80-b014-4cb0ac598a5d.png?v=1717922831"},{"product_id":"louis-xvi-style-marquetry-commodes","title":"Louis XVI-Style Marquetry Commodes","description":"This magnificent pair of French commodes captures the refinement of the Louis XVI style. A highly detailed parquetry design is inlaid into the commodes’ facades and centered by beautiful marquetry still lifes of fruits, flowers and urns. The foliate motif continues with abundant neoclassical bronze ormolu decoration, including acanthus swags and wreath drawer pulls. Each commode is completed by a white marble top accented with elegant grey veins. Crafted with subtlety and meticulous attention to detail, this pair of commodes epitomizes all of the best elements of the neoclassical Louis XVI style. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Based on the furniture and decor created during the reign of French King Louis XVI (1774-1789), the Louis XVI style experienced a comeback in the 1860s in Europe. This revival reintroduced a formal classicism to furniture with an emphasis on simplicity, straight lines and symmetry. The slenderness of proportion was once again favored in furniture, as well as classical motifs and understated luxury. Today, this elegant and timeless style remains highly prized. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1880 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 59\" wide x 19 1\/2\" deep x 35 1\/2\" high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41238612017287,"sku":"31-3639","price":198500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-3639_1_5f5bde42-2df8-445f-ae9d-eb401ef68305.png?v=1717922792"},{"product_id":"specimen-games-table-attributed-to-gillows","title":"Specimen Games Table Attributed to Gillows","description":"This magnificent games table incorporates some of the rarest English marbles, hardstones and fossil specimens, including Derbyshire Blue John. The scarcity of these coveted stones makes an inlaid circular piece of this size a truly exceptional and unique masterpiece. The tabletop, with its fabulous specimens surrounding an Ashford marble chessboard, is raised atop a carved rosewood crown designed to display the full beauty of the stones. The table's base, attributed to famed Gillows of Lancaster and London, is carved from rosewood, with the design of top and table complementing each other perfectly. Raised on a carved gadrooned central column with a leaf collar, the triform base leads to mighty lion's paw feet. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Gillows furniture is found in royal collections and museums throughout the world. Robert Gillow rose from humble beginnings as a joiner and evolved into a consummate businessman. After founding his business in 1730, he expanded his cabinetmaking activities to include direct import of quality West Indian timbers, especially fine mahogany. His talents as both a cabinetmaker and an innovative designer brought him early success, and his sons Richard and Robert joined the business. His furniture gained a reputation for excellent craftsmanship and materials. This, coupled with his insistence on being at the cutting edge of design, kept the company at the forefront of cabinetmaking throughout its incredibly long history. The powerful elegance, exquisite design, construction and exceptional rarity of this museum-quality table cannot be overstated, and it truly embodies the finest of Gillows' furnishings. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1830 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 25 1\/4\" wide x 25 1\/4\" deep x 29 1\/2\" high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41238733324423,"sku":"31-3862","price":34500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-3862_1_14f4c235-137e-48f8-b51d-811712ea13ed.png?v=1717923260"},{"product_id":"grand-ducal-pietre-dure-console-tables","title":"Grand Ducal Pietre Dure Console Tables","description":"Among the most beautiful examples of hardstone artistry that have ever entered our collection, these important Grand Ducal pietre dure console tables are in a class all their own. Their powerful architectural elegance, impressive size and rarity make them two of the finest hardstone masterpieces ever created and quite possibly the greatest pair of pietre dure tables in existence. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e With their naturalistically rendered flowers and birds, these tabletop panels showcase the particularly fine quality craftsmanship of the Grand Ducal workshops in Florence during the first quarter of the 17th century. Grand Duke Ferdinando I de Medici, one of the most important personages in the annals of art history, established the Grand Ducal Workshop in 1588. The workshop specialized in the art of pietre dure developed from the ancient art of \u003cem\u003eopus sectile\u003c\/em\u003e, giving rise to the most luxurious and detailed examples of hardstone artistry ever produced. Its patrons were the Popes and Royals of Europe, and the quality of the objects produced in the workshop is without equal. Typically, because of the high level of workmanship the art form requires, pietre dure plaques were crafted in small sizes. The great majority of known examples of pietre dure are a fraction of the size of our grand tables. The combination of pietre dure and extensive use of other rare decorative hardstones such as lapis lazuli and pietra paesina or “ruin marble” meant that these tabletops were surely produced for a wealthy collector.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The tables are further distinguished by their superbly carved bases by Andrea Brustolon, known as the “Michelangelo of wood.” Brustolon was a Venetian wood sculptor known for his exuberant and intricate Baroque furniture. His high Baroque style was influenced by his years studying in Rome, where he was exposed to the sculpture of Gian Lorenzo Bernini. Crafted in the early 18th century, these bases display Brusolon’s unmatched talent for both figural and foliate work, combining cupids, masks and oversized scrolling vines for a grand, ornate effect. Similar furnishings by Brustolon are held in museums worldwide, including the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rauantiques.my.salesforce.com\/sfc\/p\/A0000000JY02\/a\/8X000000MmIc\/hATOPMj3vvix4aSxXpzENGf7Wzsj31QRDHUqn0WI2q0\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eVictoria \u0026amp; Albert Museum, the National Museum of Scotland and the Metropolitan Museum of Art\u003c\/a\u003e, while the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rauantiques.my.salesforce.com\/sfc\/p\/A0000000JY02\/a\/8X000000MmGK\/pi4g67_lTMUCO_HZOtN9.urGr0VumK1SicrNHEyVE70\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCa' Rezzonico Museum\u003c\/a\u003e in Venice features an entire room dedicated to the sculptor. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e For approximately 250 years, these tables were part of the famed Stoneleigh Abbey collection owned by the Lord Leigh family. This renowned English country estate inspired Jane Austen to write Mansfield Park. Lord Leigh eventually sold the tables at Christie’s London in 1962, and the pair have stayed in the collection of the same Florentine family who purchased them from Christie's until we recently acquired them. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Our tables are prominently pictured in the important \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rauantiques.my.salesforce.com\/sfc\/p\/A0000000JY02\/a\/8X000000Mlwj\/SnYKYtJOxkQjno_2LYbtxflCiHCpMR5MEW7Mge.lVVs\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eSaul Levy book\u003c\/a\u003e Il Mobile Veneziano del Settencento. The pietre dure plaques date circa 1625-1650. The decorative tops likely would have originally been sold with a pair of plain stone columns to display them, and Lord Leigh would have commissioned the custom bases from Brustolon circa 1714 when he added the impressive four-story fifteen-bay Baroque West Wing to Stoneleigh Abbey. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e A similar single Grand Ducal tabletop is in the United Kingdom’s \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rauantiques.my.salesforce.com\/sfc\/p\/A0000000JY02\/a\/8X000000Mm9x\/wVCGXH9l4t2lELOxw.Jtdy_bdrUGlALc0DGJG3SIrZc\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eNational Trust Collection\u003c\/a\u003e, and a smaller tabletop resides in \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rauantiques.my.salesforce.com\/sfc\/p\/A0000000JY02\/a\/8X000000MmHX\/5DAxJGhxQkg_NFTfjITvBYqJQ82GWykmWABYTM8z0II\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eBuckingham Palace\u003c\/a\u003e. The flower and bird panels in our examples relate to the famous Badminton Cabinet, also crafted in the Grand Ducal workshops. The Badminton Cabinet became the highest-priced piece of furniture to ever sell at auction in 1990 when it sold for $16.59 million. It again set the record in December 2004, this time for $36 million, meaning it simultaneously held both the first and second place records for the highest auction prices ever for any pieces of furniture. To find a pair of objects featuring this level of artistry in hardstone and wood carving, crafted by such notable artisans, of such size and intricacy, that also hail from a titled estate is nothing short of spectacular. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Pietre dure tops: circa 1625-1650\u003cbr\u003e Bases: circa 1714 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Each table 61 1\/4\" wide x 39\" deep x 36\" high \n","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43672926027911,"sku":"31-5217","price":3450000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-5217_1.png?v=1767200809"},{"product_id":"louis-xv-style-porcelain-mounted-card-table","title":"Louis XV-Style Porcelain-Mounted Card Table","description":"This Louis XV-style French card table was designed with both elegance and function in mind. Adorned by Sèvres-style porcelain floral plaques and gilt bronze mounts, its serves as a well-appointed side or console table when not in use. When one is ready for a card game, the table quickly transforms into a sturdy playing surface, complete with green felt, by simply unfolding the hinged top. Exhibiting the timeless grace of traditional Louis XV design, the table is a triumph of early 19th-century inventiveness. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Card playing and gambling were very popular pastimes among the fashionable elite during the 18th- and 19th-centuries, and tables such as this were specially crafted and housed in some of the finest estates throughout Europe. To find a porcelain-mounted example is a rarity, particularly in such excellent condition. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1870 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 32 1\/2\" wide x 16 1\/4\" deep x 30\" high\u003cbr\u003e With table top expanded: 32 1\/2\" wide x 32 1\/2\" deep x 30\" high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43693439385735,"sku":"31-2803","price":34500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-2803_1.png?v=1769786794"},{"product_id":"regency-rosewood-marble-specimen-table","title":"Regency Rosewood Marble Specimen Table","description":"This exquisite Regency-period rosewood table is distinguished by its remarkable specimen top. An exceptional relic of natural history, the tabletop, created circa 1840, bears nearly 110 samples of rare marbles and hardstones from around the world. The stones are arranged in a radiating concentric circle pattern, adding visual interest. A rainbow of natural hues emanates from the inlaid hardstones, which include yellow siena, Breche d'Alep, rouge griotte, malachite, red and black porphyry, lapis lazuli, green antico, Spanish brocatello and Carrara marble, among others. Further elevated by its exquisite carved base, this table showcases the artistry of Regency furniture makers. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Furniture and \u003cem\u003eobjet d'art\u003c\/em\u003e that utilized inlaid and inset hardstones were considered one of the most prized souvenirs of the Grand Tour, from with micro mosaics and pietre dure to exquisite inlaid tables such as this. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1840 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 28 1\/2\" high x 44\" diameter","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41238302523527,"sku":"31-0079","price":88500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-0079_1.png?v=1717921744"},{"product_id":"louis-xv-armchairs-by-jean-rene-nadal-laine-2","title":"Louis XV Armchairs by Jean-René Nadal l'Ainé","description":"This impressive pair of French armchairs displays the splendor and elegance of the Louis XV period. Crafted by the famed ébéniste Jean-René Nadal l'Ainé (1733-1783), the chairs are exquisitely constructed with graceful, curving lines and elegant Neoclassical ornamentation. With their blue and white fabric that complements the white of the wood, they perfectly reflect the style in France during the reign of King Louis XV. It is rare to find two matching armchairs from this period, particularly by such an exceptional maker, making this set a remarkable find.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Jean-René Nadal l'Ainé was renowned for his high quality and opulently carved furniture in the Louis XV and Louis XVI styles. Born into an important cabinetmaking family, he quickly rose to prominence in his own right, becoming primarily a furniture maker for the Crown as well as for the Comte d'Artois. This exceptional settee, almost certainly made for a client of great importance, bears all of the hallmarks of this celebrated ébéniste. A similar armchair by Nadal that was once held at Versailles is currently in the collection of the Musée du Louvre. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Signed \"Nadal L'Aine\" under upholstery \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1760 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 27\" wide x 27\" deep x 39\" high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41789881745543,"sku":"30-8631","price":44500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/30-8631_1_54a2a49e-c304-4b07-a84c-3bf20a871484.png?v=1728289282"},{"product_id":"the-royal-boulle-marquetry-commode-by-blake","title":"The Royal Boulle Marquetry Commode by Blake","description":"This monumental Boulle commode was crafted by Robert Blake, one of the finest and most important English cabinetmakers of his time. It is modeled after the legendary pair of commodes made for France’s King Louis XIV by master ébéniste André-Charles Boulle, which is perhaps the most famous and esteemed of all the treasures now housed at the Palace of Versailles. Constructed of ebony and enveloped on all sides with phenomenal tortoiseshell and doré bronze marquetry and ormolu mounts of undeniable skill and artistry, this commode is the pinnacle of furniture craftsmanship. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The original commodes made by Boulle inspired re-interpretations by history’s most esteemed craftsmen. First created and supplied in 1708 by Boulle for Louis XIV’s bed chamber at Versailles, the original pair was one of only four furnishings deemed worthy enough to be rescued from both destruction and sale after the French Revolution. They were placed in the Bibliothèque Mazarine at the Institut de France, where they became known as the Mazarine Commodes, but have since been returned to Versailles.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The commode’s top features a striking example of rare Campan marble, sourced from quarries in the French Pyrenees. This exceptional stone exhibits a refined blend of green, pink, red and white veining—distinguished by its subtler red tones compared to Italian varieties. Reflecting Boulle’s masterful innovation, the marble top is designed to be removable, resting securely within a slightly recessed edge on the wooden frame. This meticulous construction ensures stability without the use of glue, preserving the integrity of the piece. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The Blake family of cabinet makers was known for their breathtakingly executed Boulle-style marquetry. Blake’s signed works are housed in the Victoria \u0026amp; Albert Museum, the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Frick Collection, at which one of the few similar pairs of commodes signed by Blake resides. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Signed Blake London inside a winged sphinx \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1850 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 35“ high x 47 1\/2” wide x 24“ deep (88.90 x 120.65 x 60.96 cm) \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Provenance:\u003cbr\u003e Important French Estate\u003cbr\u003e Private Collection, Paris\u003cbr\u003e M.S. Rau, New Orleans","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42332240576647,"sku":"31-6676","price":398500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-6676_1.png?v=1741267642"},{"product_id":"black-forest-music-box-chair","title":"Black Forest Music Box Chair","description":"A music box hidden inside this beautifully carved Swiss chair will activate when the chair is sat upon. A remarkable example of the intricate craftsmanship and artistic innovation characteristic of late 19th-century Brienz, Switzerland, this chair is skillfully carved from walnut. The chair showcases detailed inlaid cartouches on both the seat and seatback, each depicting an alpine chamois amid a backdrop of meticulously carved foliage. A functional work of art, the chair conceals a Swiss cylinder musical mechanism within its seat, designed to serenade its occupant when seated. As impressive as it is delightful, this chair is a perfect example of Black Forest craftsmanship at its finest.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e End of 19th Century \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 36“ high x 17” wide x 14 1\/2“ deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41239281598599,"sku":"31-8767","price":9850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-8767_1_53e82fec-53da-4494-8a3e-c599920fc547.png?v=1712736422"},{"product_id":"blue-john-table","title":"Blue John Table","description":"Blue John Table\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1840 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This extraordinary table is among the finest examples of rare Blue John plateaus in a single continuous slab. Elevated by a monumental mahogany base adorned with four majestic gilded-wood winged lions and intricate acanthus leaf details, the visual impact of this treasure is unmatched. The top showcases a monumental specimen of Blue John, a feat rarely achieved due to the stone's particular nature. As one of the largest examples of continuous stone, its polished surface reveals striking bands of deep purple. The acanthus leaf motif extends to the giltwood border, adorned with elegant scrolling patterns that enhance the exceptional feat of design. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Only the most gifted artisans were charged with crafting exquisite masterworks such as this, as Blue John demands a great deal of skill in its handling. A soft and brittle stone, it responds quickly to heat and must be carefully dried to retain its original color. This impressive plateau stands as an astonishing example of the rare and natural beauty of Blue John. Most examples of Blue John furniture feature small inset veneers, yet by contrast, this exceptional plateau is entirely intact. A specimen of this size would have been coveted and collected by 19th-century European royalty and aristocracy. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 30\" high x 45\" diameter","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42200711430279,"sku":"31-8741","price":268500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-8741_1.png?v=1736116613"},{"product_id":"specimen-table-attributed-to-william-trotter","title":"Specimen Table Attributed to William Trotter","description":"Octagonal Specimen Table\u003cbr\u003e William Trotter\u003cbr\u003e Early 19th Century \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This extraordinary early 19th-century Scottish specimen table is a museum-quality masterpiece attributed to William Trotter of Edinburgh, who is widely regarded as Scotland’s greatest cabinetmaker. The octagonal top is exquisitely inlaid with agate, jasper and rare Scottish hardstones, arranged in a striking pattern reminiscent of a stunning plume of feathers. The result is a remarkable fusion of geometric precision and the natural beauty of indigenous minerals. It is among the most important Scottish specimen tables ever made, and no other like it is known to exist. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e A finely carved foliate border in richly figured rosewood frames the top, enhancing its ornamental elegance. The vibrant gemstones are fitted with precision, reflecting a masterful command of both materials and technique. The table is supported by a well-balanced base and remains in untouched “country house” condition, a rare and desirable state that speaks to its long history and impeccable provenance. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e William Trotter (1772–1833) was the preeminent cabinetmaker of the Scottish Regency period and served as Lord Provost of Edinburgh from 1825 to 1827. He established his firm on Princes Street in 1805 and supplied furnishings to Scotland’s most distinguished estates, as well as to the Royal Collection. His work is instantly recognizable for its refined lines and commanding presence. This table stands among the finest examples of his output, combining superior craftsmanship with exceptional materials in a work of singular historical and artistic importance. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 28 3\/4\" high x 20 1\/2\" wide x 16 1\/2\" deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43049837461639,"sku":"32-0777","price":48850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-0777_1.png?v=1755293110"},{"product_id":"hadrians-villa-mosaic-table","title":"Hadrian's Villa Mosaic Table","description":"Hadrian's Villa Mosaic Table\u003cbr\u003e 118-134 CE | Roman \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Mosaic tabletop with later gilt wood base \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This extraordinary mosaic table from Hadrian's Villa stands as one of antiquity's most important surviving treasures, representing the ultimate convergence of imperial Roman grandeur and archaeological significance. Excavated from the legendary complex that housed Rome's greatest artworks, this magnificent piece bears the distinction of being walked upon by Roman emperors. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The mosaic's intricate geometric patterns showcase the supreme artistry of Roman craftsmen, featuring meticulously arranged tesserae that create a mesmerizing interplay of earth tones and geometric precision. Bordered by bands of varied marble, including precious verde antico, the composition displays repeating diamond and square motifs that demonstrate the mathematical sophistication of imperial Roman design. The later addition of its sumptuous gilt wood base elevates the ancient mosaic with neoclassical grandeur, featuring fluted columns, acanthus leaf capitals and elaborate carved moldings that perfectly complement the Roman aesthetic. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Hadrian's Villa, constructed between 118 and 134 CE, represented the pinnacle of Roman imperial achievement and served as the private retreat of one of history's most cultured emperors. Emperor Hadrian, who reigned from 117 to 138 CE, was a philosopher, poet, architect and military strategist whose villa covered an area larger than Pompeii and housed antiquity's most irreplaceable artworks. The villa's rediscovery in 1461 marked the Renaissance period's most significant archaeological find, though large-scale excavation didn't begin until Cardinal Giuseppe Alessandro Furietti's groundbreaking work in 1736-1738. Cardinal Furietti, both scholar and connoisseur, transformed several of the villa's most celebrated mosaic floor fragments into tabletops, documenting his designs in his seminal work \u003cem\u003eDe Musivis\u003c\/em\u003e (1752), where this very mosaic appears in Plate IV. Following the Cardinal's death, his heirs sold tables from his estate, which were acquired in 1765 by the renowned English architect Robert Adam, who added the elaborate gilt bases before placing them in Britain's most important homes, including Castle Howard, Holkham Hall and Syon House. Today, some examples reside in important museum collections, including the Victoria \u0026amp; Albert Museum. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 118-134 CE with later gilt base \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 53 1\/4\" long x 27\" wide x 34\" high (135.26 x 68.58 x 86.36 cm) \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Provenance:\u003cbr\u003e Hadrian’s Villa, Tivoli, Rome, excavated between 1736-1738 by Cardinal Furietti\u003cbr\u003e Private collection, England\u003cbr\u003e M.S. Rau, New Orleans","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44581013094535,"sku":"32-0924","price":1250000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-0924_1_291fc085-cd55-4cd5-a844-653b3a1cc164.png?v=1778347394"},{"product_id":"louis-xvi-style-giltwood-console-table","title":"Louis XVI-Style Giltwood Console Table","description":"Louis XVI-Style Table\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1870 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e A fine Louis XVI-style console table with a beautiful giltwood base and rouge marble top. The table’s four fully carved legs, resembling architectural columns, are typical of the Neoclassical taste, and are accented by a raised mask cartouche in the center. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Based on the furniture and decor created during the reign of French King Louis XVI (1774-1789), the Louis XVI style experienced a revival in the 1860s in Europe and the eastern part of the United States. This revival reintroduced a formal classicism to furniture with an emphasis on simplicity, straight lines and symmetry. Slenderness of proportion was once again favored in furniture, as well as delicate classical motifs and understated luxury. Today, this elegant and timeless style remains highly prized. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 35\" high x 45 1\/4\" wide x 21 1\/4\" deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43746752200839,"sku":"32-2157","price":44500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-2157_1_754ce4ca-a29a-4a01-a3d3-87c352e8fcff.png?v=1769781458"},{"product_id":"roman-cosmatesque-hardstone-table","title":"Roman Cosmatesque Hardstone Table","description":"Roman Cosmatesque Hardstone and Marble Table\u003cbr\u003e 12th Century \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e A breathtaking relic of the High Middle Ages, this extraordinary Cosmatesque hardstone and marble table represents a rare fusion of ancient Roman grandeur and medieval Italian artistry, surviving intact for nearly 900 years. Almost certainly created for a church, palace or noble residence during the 12th century, the tabletop is composed of precious ancient Roman hardstones arranged in an intricate geometric mosaic. Monumental Cosmatesque works rarely leave their original architectural settings, making this table an exceptionally rare example of one of the Middle Ages’ most celebrated decorative arts. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Brilliantly colored porphyry, serpentine and other prized Roman hardstones form the dazzling \u003cem\u003eopus sectile\u003c\/em\u003e mosaic. Each fragment carries the legacy of antiquity, salvaged by medieval craftsmen from the ruins of ancient Rome and originally quarried across the vast Roman Empire. By the High Middle Ages, many of these quarries had been exhausted or lost, making the stones precious remnants of the ancient world. The richly patterned design exemplifies the coveted Cosmatesque style, named for the celebrated Cosmati family of Roman craftsmen, whose work adorned the churches and palaces of popes, kings and noble patrons. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The Cosmati workshops transformed fragments of ancient monuments into some of Europe’s most magnificent pavements, altars and furnishings. Their distinctive geometric compositions became synonymous with the finest ecclesiastical commissions of medieval Italy. Perhaps the most famous surviving example is the Cosmatesque pavement of Westminster Abbey, installed in 1268 beneath the Coronation Chair and used in royal coronations for more than seven centuries. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The tabletop is now set upon a handsome marble base, dating to the 17th or 18th century. The survival of such an important composition in table form is exceptionally rare, offering collectors a museum-worthy work that bridges classical antiquity and medieval Europe. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 31 1\/4\" high x 46\" wide x 47 1\/4\" deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45390941880455,"sku":"32-2128","price":188500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-2128_1.png?v=1786728108"}],"url":"https:\/\/rauantiques.com\/collections\/8-26-artful-furnishings.oembed?page=2","provider":"M.S. Rau","version":"1.0","type":"link"}