Christopher Chodoff

Coffee table designed by Christopher Chodoff, United States, circa 1980s. Rectangular form with a clear inset glass top set within a patinated solid bronze frame. The base is compose...

A striking, late 20th-century classical Etruscan metal console table by Christopher Chodoff (American, 20th c.), the celebrated New York designer and antiques dealer renowned for his masterful furniture executed in the sculptural, zoomorphic manner of Diego Giacometti and Ilana Goor. The architectural frame features ring-turned, node-accented legs braced by side X-stretchers centered with gilt-bronze rosettes, alongside a dynamic cross-stretcher base secured with Chodoff's signature interlocking hook-and-loop ring joinery. Adding a captivating zoomorphic detail, a finely detailed gilt-bronze snake appears to crawl along the lower cross-stretcher. The frame is finished in a rich, multi-tonal hand-painted verdigris green patina with polished gilt-bronze accents at the snake, rosettes, and leg rings. The table is crowned with a heavy, polished black granite slab top, creating a sophisticated contrast against the textured, sculptural base. Combining classical proportions with Neoclassical, Brutalist, and surrealist influences, this documented work makes a compelling statement piece for an entryway, gallery, or high-end living interior. Christopher Chodoff (American, 1909–1990) was a prominent New York antiques dealer, designer, and key tastemaker who gained widespread acclaim beginning in the 1950s. Renowned for his impeccable eye, Chodoff is credited with playing a pivotal role in introducing European modernist design icons—most notably Diego Giacometti and Jean-Michel Frank—to the American luxury market and high-society art collectors. His exceptional talent for blending sculptural art with functional forms made him a favorite among an elite clientele, designing custom interiors and bespoke furniture commissions for global figures such as fashion designer Valentino and actress Jane Fonda. Beyond his curatorial work, Chodoff developed an acclaimed body of his own sculptural metal furniture, heavily influenced by classical Etruscan forms, Neoclassical proportions, and the organic, textured approach of the Giacometti brothers. Executed primarily in patinated cast bronze and wrought iron, his signature pieces frequently incorporated expressive, hand-worked surfaces alongside delicate zoomorphic accents—such as coiled gilt-bronze serpents, birds, and animals—making his designs highly coveted statement pieces among top interior designers and fine art collectors today. Details: Designer/Maker: Christopher Chodoff Period: Late 20th Century Style: In the manner of Diego Giacometti / Ilana Goor / Neoclassical Modern / Zoomorphic Materials: Painted Metal/Bronze, Gilt Bronze Details, Polished Black Granite Features: Sculptural gilt-bronze snake accent on stretcher, ring-turned legs, side X-stretchers with gilt rosettes, painted verdigris finish, polished black granite slab top Excellent vintage condition. The frame retains its rich, hand-painted verdigris patina with light, age-appropriate character wear. The gilt-bronze snake and accent rings retain strong luster, and the black granite top is clean, intact, and sits level on the frame. Keywords: Christopher Chodoff console table, documented Christopher Chodoff, Chodoff snake console, Ilana Goor style table, Ilana Goor bronze furniture, Diego Giacometti style snake table, bronze snake console table, painted verdigris console...