Mid-Victorian Rosewood & Japanned Papier-Mâché Coffee Table, c.1850–1870

A unique mid-Victorian coffee table, combining a dark rosewood carved base with a richly decorated japanned papier-mâché tray top. Both components date from the mid-19th century, circa 1850–1870, and were later brought together to create the present table. The rectangular tray-form top has a raised rim running around the entire edge and is decorated throughout with flowers, foliage and fruit in gilt and coloured detail against a dark japanned ground. The floral decoration continues onto the raised border surrounding the tray. The base is formed from dark rosewood with carved cabriole legs and a shaped carved apron. Tables of this type were created by cabinetmakers and restorers by combining earlier antique components, particularly decorative papier-mâché trays with Victorian footstool or low-table bases. This produced individual pieces that retained the age, craftsmanship and decorative character of the original 19th-century elements while creating a practical piece of furniture for modern interiors. The result is a particularly unusual and decorative coffee table, with a useful size and proportions for a living room or seating area. It works especially well as an interior design piece, combining genuine Victorian components with a form that remains practical for everyday use.

Estimate:$1,255.23

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