Object Description
Modern silvered and gilt bronze animalier coffee table by JM David
French, 2008
Height 57cm, width 207cm, depth 109cm
Designed and made by José Maria David (1944-2015), an important French sculptor, the glass-topped coffee table stands on a beautifully sculpted base depicting animals at a watering hole.
Made from silvered bronze, the central stretcher in the shape of a watering hole is filled with and surrounded by animals such as tigers and monkeys. A hippo can be observed cooling down in the water, while a pelican stands on the side holding a recently caught fish. All animals are made from gilt bronze creating a visually striking contrast between the silver and gold tones applied on the bronze.
The branches extending from the watering hole are also made from silvered bronze. On two of them, a pair of tigers is standing, one tiger holding an animal’s leg which he has just found. The other tiger is attempting to take this off him. The remaining two branches feature tigers walking towards the watering hole. Further tigers are mounted on palm-shaped legs.
The piece features a plaque with a cast signature reading ‘JM DAVID 2008/ LA TREVE DE LA SOIF’.
The charming and intriguing animal scene paired with superb craftsmanship makes this coffee table a desirable addition to an interior space.