19th Century French Marquetry Inlaid Gueridon Table With Marble Top

A fine French Louis XVI style 'Bouillotte' table, in wood veneer and marquetry, with an inlaid beige veined marble top surrounded by an openwork brass gallery. The gambling card game of bouillotte was so popular in France during the 18th century that a special style of table was created for play, and this handsome example exhibits all the Classic features, including a frieze drawer on one side, which opens with compartments for cards and chips, and a sliding pull-out tray on the other, which was designed to support a candle or drinks glasses. The table rests on four square, tapering legs, terminating in square brass feet and castors. A shaped and marquetry inlaid under-tier connects the four legs, giving useful additional storage.