Neoclassical half-moon console in carved and gilded wood, Rome, late 18th century

Neoclassical half-moon console in carved and gilded wood, Rome, late 18th century Measurements: cm H 90 x W 120 x D 60 Price: private negotiation Item accompanied by a certificate of authenticity This elegant console was made in Rome in the neoclassical period towards the end of the 18th century. Half-moon shaped, it has a top composed of a Sicilian jasper marble veneer on a white marble base that is covered in gold leaf in its height. The wooden structure has a gold leaf gilding that, to create movement and shine, has the more prominent details polished with agate stone, while the recessed areas are softened with a burin treatment. The wood is finely carved with motifs characteristic of neoclassicism. The band under the top has an egg-and-dart frame at the top, a band with phytomorphic ornaments with spirals and leaves, and a bead-and-reel frame at the bottom. Elements in the shape of a mask are carved in correspondence with the four legs. The legs, shaped like an inverted truncated cone, fluted and carved with flowers and leaves, originate with an important circular capital decorated with acanthus leaves, palmettes and convex flutes. Even the ferrules with which the legs end have very refined and complex sculptures with geometric and floral elements and acanthus leaves. Consoles were among the most sought-after furnishings in the important Italian palaces between the 17th and 18th centuries, emblems of the commissioner's wealth, to be displayed in the 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 houses it. The warm color conferred by the gilding and the jasper top, and the refinement of the carvings makes this furniture light, graceful and very decorative, easily insertable into antique but also modern furnishing contexts. Some missing parts in the jasper veneer on the back are noted. The photographs were taken before the conservative restoration of the gilded wooden part.