ROUND COFFEE TABLE - MANIFATTURA DI ROLO - 19TH CENTURY

Round coffee table with a central leg, attributable to the Rolo workshop. This workshop is universally recognized for its extraordinary skill in the art of wood inlay, and this piece fully embodies its technical and aesthetic characteristics, typically dating to the second half of the 19th century (peak Louis Philippe / Second Empire period). Analysis of the Top The circular top is the decorative focal point of the piece, characterized by a complex geometric and figurative composition of concentric circles: The Central Medallion: Depicts the iconic scene of St. George and the Dragon. The saint is shown on horseback, his cape billowing in the wind, as he pierces the dragon at the hooves of his mount with his lance. The inlay demonstrates excellent mastery in the use of wood grain to give depth and chiaroscuro to the figure. Geometric Bands: The medallion is enclosed by a series of borders typical of the Rolo repertoire: A first band with a three-dimensional geometric Greek key (or meander) motif, creating a strong visual contrast. A second external band decorated with a radial "dentil" or "diamond point" pattern (commonly called a frieze of triangles). The Outer Edge: The outermost section of the top is veneered in radial slivers of blonde walnut burl, bordered around the perimeter by a refined two-tone herringbone inlay. The edge of the thickness (the frieze) features the same processing with an angled comb pattern. Support (Stem and Base) The supporting structure follows the typical canons of a "tripod" table or salon guéridon: The Central Stem: Is turned and shaped with bulbous and spool elements. The central section features exquisite vertical geometric micro-inlay (small squares and threads), a high-quality detail that distinguishes the more meticulously crafted pieces of the workshop from more mass-produced ones. The Tripod: The base is supported by three "volute" or "S" shaped legs (Louis Philippe style), which ensure stability while lending elegance to the form. The upper surface of each leg is also embellished with an inlaid reserve that echoes the geometric patterns of the stem. Materials and Finish Wood types: Main structure in walnut (in the typical warm, blonde hue), combined with fruitwood and boxwood to create the chiaroscuro color contrasts of the inlaid decorations. Condition and Finish: The coffee table has a spirit-varnish finish applied by hand with shellac, which enhances the luster of the grain and protects the inlay. Dimensions: diameter 69 cm, height 68 cm. Style and Authenticity Notes This model falls into the category of the most sought-after Rolo cabinets/salon tables. The choice of a historical-religious subject (St. George), combined with the complexity of the three orders of Greek key on the top and the inlay on the stem, places it in the upper-medium production range of Rolo, of excellent craftsmanship and great decorative impact. A regular certificate of authenticity with photographs will be provided. We assure a response to your emails within 24 hours. REGISTERED WITH THE ROLL OF EXPERTS AND COURT TECHNICAL CONSULTANTS AT THE COURT OF LA SPEZIA