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Ceylonese 19th Century Ebony and Specimen Wood Centre Table

Offered by: Loveday Antiques

Description
Ceylonese 19th Century Ebony and Specimen Wood Centre Table Galle District
#3045
An extremely fine octagonal carved Anglo Indian ebony centre table with specimen inlaid top

Ceylonese circa 1840

This outstanding specimen table exhibits all the best characteristics of the Galle District crasftmen of the 19th century using the enviable supply of native tropical timbers.

Of octagonal form, this table is executed almost entirely in ebony that has been carved and finished to the highest standard of quality. Beginning at the base, the table stands on three extraordinary feet in the form of crouching lions with flowing manes, their faces highlighted by inlaid ivory eyes which give them a somewhat startled expression and make them utterly charming to look at rather than fierce. The feet support a tripartite platform base with carved apron and the three curving supports leading to the table top are not only highly carved but also fretted. The strength and density of ebony allowing this sort of decoration to be used even on a part of the structure which is so fundamental to the overall strength of the piece. Further fretted carving is used on the apron and frieze of the table top, the decorative scheme here being largely floral with highly naturalistic depictions of leaves and flowers. The octagonal top of the table being the focal point and of fabulous colour with a radial geometric patera of native timbers outlined by inset ivory within a banded boarder.

This table is highly decorative and, given the wooden seats used on the chairs that were made en suite with it (see below), it was probably designed as a hall table in a grand entrance hall. Today it could certainly be used in a similar way or perhaps as a library table or dining/breakfast table if required.

As mentioned above, we also have a set of three chairs made en suite with this table which are also currently in our collection, the inlaid paterae on the chair backs echoing the design utilised on the top of the table. The chairs and table are available for sale separately if required. Pieces like this represent the height of taste in Ceylonese carved ebony furniture made for the export market and the combination of inlay and carving on the chairs in particular is highly unusual. These are very decorative examples which are sure to add a dash of flair to any interior and their restrained colour palette means that they work well in contemporary or more traditional settings.

Ivory Act 2018 (2022) compliant with APHA registration reference 6R5EFXVR

Width: 37 1/2inches - 96cm
Height: 28 1/2 inches - 72cm
Depth: 37 1/2 inches - 96cm

More Information

Period:	19th Century
Condition:	Good.
Styles / Movements:	Traditional
Dealer Reference #:	3045
Incollect Reference #:	767860

Dimensions

W.	37.5 in;	H.	28.5 in;	D.	37.5 in;
W.	95.25 cm;	H.	72.39 cm;	D.	95.25 cm;

Message from Seller:

Loveday Antiques, established in London in 1969 and now run by Alexander in Hertfordshire, specializes in an eclectic mix of 18th, 19th, and 20th-century European furniture and works of art. For inquiries, please contact info@lovedayantiques.co.uk or call 01438 869819—our showrooms are open by appointment, offering a relaxed, personalized experience for collectors and designers.