Ebony Console Tables

A pair of fine antique French Louis XVI style ebony and gilt decorated hand-carved wood marble top demilune shaped console tables embellished with eagles in the centre.

This very impressive console table comes from the famous American Country house Blairsden. This house built in Peapack NJ for C. Ledyard Blair and Mrs. Florence Blair between 1898 and 1903. The house was created and decorated by the important architectural firm of Carrere & Hastings. The firm produced many homes, churches, monuments and public buildings for America's gilded age notables. Blairsden boasts extensive landscaped gardens in the manner of the French Baroque in the tradition of Andre Le Notre. The interiors as well where extensively set out and incorporated appropriate French and English furniture complimenting the decorative schemes. No expense was spared to create this house and grounds based on the ideals of Edwardian splendor and the ideal modern residence. This house was listed in 1903 upon its completion in the survey of American Estates & Gardens published by Barr Ferree. While much was spoken of its location, setting, architectural accomplishments and style the summation of the listing called "Blairsden one of the most elaborate and extensive schemes of its kind ever carried out in America." This table was formally part of the dining rooms complete redecoration by the architectural firm carried out in 1913. The room was originally planned around dark paneling and a warm even family-style catering to their children. The new rooms scheme was greatly enlarged and lightened up considerably by extensive plasterwork and painting in the Adams style. This table and a mate was used to center two opposing walls and complimented the inset painted panels and plasterwork ceiling which contained many references to swags, pateria, and other classical motifs. This table has been pictured in several period photographs and the house is extensively spoken of in the comprehensive book published in 2006 by Acanthus Press encompassing the principles ideals and the extent of there work especially in the Beaux-Arts...