Object Description
Rare very large Boulle marquetry centre table by Dasson from Wallace Collection
French, 1878
Height 99cm, width 269cm, depth 134cm
This outstanding centre table, dated 1878, is a remarkable work by Henry Dasson (1825–1896), one of the foremost French cabinetmakers and bronze artisans of the 19th century. Known for his exceptional skill in creating opulent furniture, Dasson’s work is characterised by rich marquetry and finely cast gilt-bronze ornamentation. The table exemplifies his talent and reflects the highest standards of French decorative arts during the period.
Of particular historic significance, the table was once part of the esteemed Wallace Collection – an assemblage of fine and decorative arts curated by Sir Richard Wallace (1818–1890), an influential English aristocrat and art patron. Housed in Hertford House, London, the collection was largely donated to the nation by Lady Wallace in 1897. However, this table was retained within the private estate and passed to Sir John Murray Scott, Wallace’s trusted adviser. An archival photograph dating to circa 1890 shows the table placed prominently in the Back State Room on the ground floor of Hertford House, marking its importance in the setting. It is thought to be among the largest examples of Boulle marquetry in Wallace’s original holdings.
Following Wallace’s passing, a detailed valuation of the estate was conducted. The table appeared for the first time in official records, described as ‘a 9ft centre table formed of black shell inlaid with coloured boule, supporting a slab of Egyptian granite on eight square legs and serpentine stretchers, metal-gilt mounts, coronetted vase’, and appraised at £600 – a considerable sum for the time. Later in 1897, during another valuation of furnishings not left to the nation, the piece was identified as ‘The Dasson Table’.
Dasson drew inspiration from the legendary André-Charles Boulle (French, 1642–1732), the royal cabinetmaker to Louis XIV, whose intricate inlay technique combining brass, tortoiseshell, pewter, and ebony defined the aesthetic of the period. This influence is evident throughout the design of the present piece, which displays masterful Boulle-style marquetry across its surface, stretchers, legs, and friezes. Each of the eight square tapering legs features complex inlaid panels and ends in spiral-turned toupie feet. The corners are embellished with finely cast ormolu ram’s heads – a recurring decorative motif in Dasson’s oeuvre. The serpentine stretchers connecting the legs are enriched with scrolling mounts and stylised acanthus detailing, while bold, openwork gilt-bronze elements adorn the friezes on all four sides.
Topping the majestic structure is a luxurious slab of Egyptian granite, its natural speckled pattern creating a striking contrast to the dramatic black and gold hues below. A gadrooned gilt-bronze border frames the stone, and a crowned orb decorated with fleurs-de-lys further enhances the regal composition. The ormolu bears Dasson’s engraved signature ‘Henry Dasson. 1878’, and the wooden frame is stamped ‘HENRY DASSON / 1878’, along with the inventory marking ‘264/1’ in white chalk.
A masterpiece that unites artistic brilliance with significant provenance, this table is not only a testament to Henry Dasson’s refined craftsmanship but also a piece deeply rooted in British collecting history. Its commanding scale, superb decorative quality, and impeccable lineage make it a truly rare and distinguished addition to any refined interior or elite collection.