Antique Burgauté Black Lacquer & Mother-of-Pearl Sewing Table Circa 1850–1880

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Antique Burgauté Black Lacquer & Mother-of-Pearl Gilt Sewing Table Circa

Made in c1850–1880.

Approx. 29" High x 22 1/2" Wide … Read more Antique Burgauté Black Lacquer & Mother-of-Pearl Gilt Sewing Table Circa

Made in c1850–1880.

Approx. 29" High x 22 1/2" Wide x 16 1/2" Deep.

Exceptional 19th-century Victorian sewing table is a stunning example of classic Chinoiserie furniture.

It is designed in the Napoleon III style, which was highly popular in France during the mid-to-late 19th century.

The exterior features a rich, glossy black lacquer ground decorated with highly detailed, hand-painted gold gilt scrollwork, foliage, and architectural landscapes.

The top lid and side panels display intricate burgauté mosaic borders made from hundreds of tiny, hand-set abalone shell fragments that flash radiant hues of pink, green, and gold in the light.

The front and top faces showcase traditional hand-carved mother-of-pearl figural scenes depicting figures in boats, pavilions, and bridges.

The scalloped top lifts to reveal a remarkably well-preserved, deep storage basin lined in clean, tufted yellow-gold silk velvet.

Below the main body is an integrated, smooth-lined pull-out drawer featuring a delicate mother-of-pearl floral handle.

The table is supported by elegant, out-swept cabriole legs terminating in an X-shaped lower stretcher adorned with a prominent, centrally turned urn finial and gold scrollwork medallions.

Very Good Antique Condition given its age, with wear consistent with historical use and age. The table stands perfectly sturdy; the joints, cabriole legs, and lower stretcher/finial base are strong and stable. The yellow silk-velvet tufted interior and flat drawer lining are remarkably clean, vibrant, and free of major staining or tears. There some areas of missing mother-of-pearl inlay on the central architectural scene of the top lid. Very minor hairline stress fracture visible in the lacquer to the right of the front keyhole. Light rubbing/fading to the gold gilt borders on the lower rim and back panel. No key. See less