Pietra Dure Specimen Marble and Bronze Table

A superb example of 19th-century artisan craftsmanship, this Pietra Dure Specimen Marble and Bronze Table exemplifies the opulent decorative tastes of Victorian England, drawing influence from Italian pietra dura traditions. Combining meticulous stonework with elegant bronze fittings, this centre table offers a tangible connection to an era of grand domestic interiors and cosmopolitan collecting.

Origin: England, Italy
Date: Circa 1860
Material: Specimen marble, bronze
Dimensions: Height: 85 cm (33.5 ins), Depth: 48 cm (19 ins)
Condition: Excellent patina, stone inlays intact

Inspired by the refined aesthetic popularised during the mid-19th century, this accent table boasts a meticulously arranged top featuring no less than 64 rare and exotic stone samples. Comparable examples of specimen marble tables are prized in esteemed institutions such as the Victoria and Albert Museum, highlighting their significance among European elites and royal families. The combination of English taste and Italian artistry is evident in each facet, underscoring the cosmopolitan allure of grand European collecting culture.

Notable Features:

• Craftsmanship highlights:

  • The table’s circular top is inlaid with 64 individually sourced stones, including Brecha da Arrábida, Rosso Levanto, Norwegian Rose Marble, and Imperial Porphyry.
  • Each segment is precisely cut and polished, demonstrating virtuoso skill in pietra dure stonework.
  • Robust bronze trimmings complement the vibrant palette of the marbles, balancing strength with visual delicacy.

• Design significance:

  • The harmonious interplay of colour and classical symmetry typifies the height of Victorian design.
  • The table’s form is at once functional and ornamental, reflecting both continental Neoclassicism and the English Regency penchant for bold statement pieces.

• Collecting value:

  • Tables of this calibre are particularly sought after due to their rarity and the sheer diversity of materials assembled from across Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Russia.
  • Its impressive provenance, combined with exceptional condition, elevates it to a highly desirable specimen for collectors of decorative arts.

• Practical value:

  • Perfect as a centre table or accent piece, it invites admiration and conversation in refined interiors.
  • Whether showcased in a drawing room, study, or private collection, this Pietra Dure Specimen Marble and Bronze Table embodies both artistic mastery and enduring historical interest.

A true testament to the artistry and cosmopolitan taste of its period, this table is not only a visual masterpiece but a rare highlight for any discerning collector of antique accent tables.