Classical George I Console Table

Description

Fine and elegant early Georgian oak marble top console table in the Chinese taste, the original veined marble top with ogee edge, over a similarly molded base, the square cabriole legs with mitered joints in the Chinese manner, joined by scrolled stretcher base. England, circa 1720.
The fascination with things Chinese in England began in earnest toward the end of the 17th century and remained popular into the early 18th century. What is interesting about this table is not only the design, which relies heavily on Chinese prototypes, but also the construction, which employs the complex joinery skills found in Chinese furniture.