Console in carved and mecca-gilded wood, Naples 18th century

Console in carved and mecca-gilded wood, Naples 18th century Measurements: cm W 122 at the top, max. W 124 x D 55 x H 93 Price: confidential negotiation Item accompanied by a certificate of authenticity This console, made of richly carved and mecca-gilded wood, represents a characteristic example of the decorative repertoire widespread in Naples in Baroque cabinet making around the first half of the 18th century, Louis XIV period, with elements of particular sumptuousness in the sculptural resolution of the carving. The furniture has a sculpted band with elements of large rocaille-style vegetal volutes and a rich shell carving on the central part. The four legs are characterized by an arched movement and a curl foot. The wood has silver leaf mecca gilding. Mecca gilding is a type of gilding performed on silver leaf so that it takes on the appearance and preciousness of gold leaf. Mecca is a varnish with an ancient recipe that was jealously guarded in workshops. It involves the use of sandarac gum and gutta gum in alcohol, dragon's blood and other ingredients which, when mixed together, contribute to the different chromatic elements of the mecca. The top, molded and lacquered in imitation marble, was replaced in the nineteenth century. In the important Italian palaces between the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, consoles were among the most sought-after furnishings, an emblem of the client's wealth, to be displayed in large reception halls. This type of highly decorative furniture is still of great scenic effect today and contributes to the majesty of any environment that hosts it. The warm color conferred by the mecca gilding makes this piece of furniture luminous, graceful and very decorative, easily inserted into antique but also modern furnishing contexts.