Early 19th Century Pedestals

A one-of-a-kind masterpiece, this impressive table is among the finest pieces of Blue John furniture ever crafted. The star of the table is undoubtedly the monumental slab of Derbyshire Blue John set at its center. One of the most important examples known of this rare and highly coveted mineral, this Blue John specimen is not only monumental in size, but also stunning in the natural patterns of the hard stone. The translucent crystalline layers of the stone radiate outwards in bands of deep blues, rich purples, and golden yellows. It embodies all of the best attributes of this highly coveted stone. The scarcity of this English stone makes a piece of this remarkable size all the rarer. Blue John is nearly impossible to find in this massive size. Due to its popularity, the largest veins of Blue John had disappeared by the early 19th century, and only a small amount of the stone remains today. Due to this scarcity, most examples of Blue John furniture feature inset veneers of smaller specimens of the stone. By contrast, this rare table features a whole, intact slab of Blue John that measures a remarkable 38 inches in diameter. It represents some of the last and largest ornamental wares created of such grand size and proportion, and such pieces are rarely found outside of the great English aristocratic estates. The richly carved base of the table was almost certainly crafted by the famed Gillows of Lancaster and London. The Blue John specimen is held by a rosewood base and gadrooned top with brass stringing, which provides a perfect complementary richness to the vivid hues of the stone. The exceptional design of the table showcases the unique qualities for which Blue John is so loved, from its distinctive radiating structure to its rich shades of purple and gold. Hard stone pieces such as this were popular among the British aristocracy during the 19th century. A similar, but smaller blue john table...

Fine pair of late 19th century faux porphyry and parcel-gilt pedestals, French from the Empire period, circa 1810 Good condition, wear consistent with age and use. Original surface....

Handsome form and beautiful surface and color, the rectangular top with hinged flaps, fitted with a frieze drawer, raised on a columnar support on a quadripartite base, on lobed feet...