19th Century French Empire Period Painted Demi Lune Console Table

Interesting and High Quality 19th Century French Empire Period Demi Lune Console or Side Table with Original Painted Surface and Faux Marble Top. This lovely table is of demi lune form with its original paint has an undertier or stretcher of matching form. The frieze is beautifully carved with a repeating anthemion and foliage design, probably inspired by the Erechtheion in Athens which was the source for many designs of this type during this period. In the centre of the frieze is a mask, presumably of Medusa. The collars of each leg feature carved harpies with wings spread and the quality of both the design and execution of the carving is very high. Beneath these collars, the legs are of typical turned and fluted form and they terminate in well-carved floral toupie feet. The top of the table is a particularly fine example of faux marbling, the veins suggested with great delicacy and realism. A rare, lovely and unusual piece of furniture.