Large antique French garniture centrepiece by Boin-Taburet

Large antique French garniture centrepiece by Boin-Taburet
French, Late 19th Century
Middle piece: Height 47cm, width 68cm, depth 52cm
End pieces: Height 30cm, width 43cm, depth 42cm
 
This exceptional late 19th-century garniture centrepiece is the work of the celebrated Parisian firm Boin-Taburet. Established in 1873 by antique dealer Georges Boin and jeweller Émile Taburet, the company specialised in exquisite silver and metalwork, decorative objects, and finely crafted small furniture. Their artistry was recognised with a gold medal at the 1889 Exposition Universelle in Paris.
 
The central piece is designed as a domed pagoda, framed by elegant colonnades. At its centre stands a gilt-metal figure, most likely Apollo, the revered Greek deity. The surrounding structure combines gilt metal with columns in Sarrancolin, Rosso Levanto, and green marble, which are also used for the urns nestled between the columns. The entire composition rests upon a stepped onyx base, with the dome executed in the same luxurious material.
 
Accompanying the main centrepiece are two matching architectural elements, featuring Rosso Levanto marble colonnades. Like the centrepiece, these are crafted from gilt metal and set on carved onyx bases. Each piece is decorated with a low-relief motif at its centre, likely inspired by classical water features
The garniture bears the mark ‘BOIN TABURET / A PARIS’ on the lower left of the base.
 
A masterpiece of French decorative arts, this garniture celebrates the elegance of classical architecture and the refined tastes of the Grand Tour, offering a statement of sophistication and artistry for any interior.
 
Artist/Maker: Boin-Taburet (French, active 1880-1900)