Object Description
Empire style lapis lazuli and ormolu coffee table
French, 20th Century
Height 52cm, width 122cm, depth 62cm
This Empire-style coffee table, crafted in France during the 20th century, exemplifies remarkable craftsmanship and refined artistry. Its rectangular top is veneered in lustrous lapis lazuli, bordered by a delicately cast stiff-leaf motif that underscores the table’s elegance and luxurious finish.
Beneath the richly coloured surface, the frieze features a stylized anthemion pattern cast in gilt brass, a classical detail emblematic of the Empire style. This decorative band is framed by two finely gilded bars, creating a harmonious interplay of texture and tone. The table rests on square, tapering legs, which are joined beneath and meet at the centre in a beautifully cast foliate basket, adding both structural integrity and ornamental charm.
The striking contrast between the deep blue lapis lazuli and the warm radiance of gilt-bronze captures the grandeur typical of Empire design, while the considered proportions ensure the table is as functional as it is decorative. Perfect for displaying ornaments or serving as a refined surface in a living area, it combines practicality with enduring visual appeal.
This Empire-style coffee table is a distinguished addition to any interior, offering both a statement of classical elegance and a versatile, usable surface.