19th Century Louis XIV Desk

This old ebony table presents in its composition different styles: the Louis XIV style, Louis XVI as well as the Empire style, which influenced each other one after the other. The general structure of the table is coated with black French varnish, very distinct and characteristic of Empire style furniture. The Empire style of Napoleon III is marked by grandeur, sumptuous but not too opulent decorations. However, the golden decorative elements of the table have a Louis XVI and Louis XVI style appearance. This antique French Napoleon III table is crafted from ebony and decorated with classically symmetrical patterns. The table top is a very remarkable element because it is not coated with lacquer, which makes it matt and discreet unlike the rest of the table. The shape of the table top is a combination of oval and rectangular, the edges are lacquered and in a grooved bead shaped profile, finished with gilt bronze. In the skirt of the table are two drawers and all along the skirt are motifs of acanthus cartouches framed by golden rectangular lines. In the center of the table skirt is a gilded bronze mount resembling an ancient image of a king, which refers to Napoleon, who used motifs from ancient history in order to showcase his glory and his importance. The table is supported by 4 beautifully ornate legs in gilt bronze and dark lacquer. The acanthus leaf pattern stretches along the legs creating a harmonious link with the table skirt. The unique accent is this table is the use of oyster or different shell shaped ornaments in brass in the legs, using gilt bronze on shell moldings, it gives a coastal vibe to the table, which was most likely produced in the Louis XIV style. Beneath the table, connected by the rounded legs, is a well-made serpentine X-shaped stretcher that merges in the center with a large circle. Where the stretchers and circle connect are accent pieces made with ormolu acanthus leaf moldings. The four antique table bases are all around, but the top takes advantage of the angularity of the rectangles and squares. In addition, the use of lacquer helps to enhance the shine of the antique table and provides a very aesthetic aesthetic, as well as resistance to corrosion by termites or pests.