Ceylonese 19th Century Ebony and Specimen Wood Centre Table Galle District

An extremely fine octagonal carved Anglo Indian ebony centre table with specimen inlaid top

Ceylonese circa 1840

This outstanding specimen table exhibits all the best characteristics of the Galle District crasftmen of the 19th century using the enviable supply of native tropical timbers.

Of octagonal form, this table is executed almost entirely in ebony that has been carved and finished to the highest standard of quality. Beginning at the base, the table stands on three extraordinary feet in the form of crouching lions with flowing manes, their faces highlighted by inlaid ivory eyes which give them a somewhat startled expression and make them utterly charming to look at rather than fierce. The feet support a tripartite platform base with carved apron and the three curving supports leading to the table top are not only highly carved but also fretted. The strength and density of ebony allowing this sort of decoration to be used even on a part of the structure which is so fundamental to the overall strength of the piece. Further fretted carving is used on the apron and frieze of the table top, the decorative scheme here being largely floral with highly naturalistic depictions of leaves and flowers. The octagonal top of the table being the focal point and of fabulous colour with a radial geometric patera of native timbers outlined by inset ivory within a banded boarder.

This table is highly decorative and, given the wooden seats used on the chairs that were made en suite with it (see below), it was probably designed as a hall table in a grand entrance hall. Today it could certainly be used in a similar way or perhaps as a library table or dining/breakfast table if required.

As mentioned above, we also have a set of three chairs made en suite with this table which are also currently in our collection, the inlaid paterae on the chair backs echoing the design utilised on the top of the table. The chairs and table are available for sale separately if required. Pieces like this represent the height of taste in Ceylonese carved ebony furniture made for the export market and the combination of inlay and carving on the chairs in particular is highly unusual. These are very decorative examples which are sure to add a dash of flair to any interior and their restrained colour palette means that they work well in contemporary or more traditional settings.

Ivory Act 2018 (2022) compliant with APHA registration reference 6R5EFXVR

Width: 37 1/2inches - 96cm

Height: 28 1/2 inches - 72cm

Depth: 37 1/2 inches - 96cm

Loveday Antiques is a family run business originally established since 1969 in London.

Now in its second generation, Loveday Antiques specialises in an eclectic mix of 18th to 20th Century European furniture and works of art, with a strong emphasis on quality, uniqueness and colour.

As proud members of BADA & LAPADA, the largest association for professional art and antique dealers in the United Kingdom and members of CINOA, the worldwide association for antique dealers you can buy from us with 100% confidence and reassurance as we are committed to upholding and abiding by the strict standards of each association.

Our clients can rest assured that each item is as described and photographed.

All Items are sold with 100% satisfaction 14 day money back guarantee, return delivery will be charged for.

We deliver within the UK for usually between £60-£80 and ship worldwide with professional bespoke crating via air to almost all locations. Please contact us at Loveday Antiques with your full postal address for a very competitive quote.

Delivery within the mainland UK will usually be with 7 to 14 days but please allow up to 28 days. We also ship worldwide with a professional bespoke crating service and large International couriers via air and sea to almost all locations. Please contact us at Loveday Antiques with your full postal address for a very competitive quote.

GOODS

All items listed are in excellent condition having been restored using traditional methods by experienced cabinet makers and polishers keeping the original colour and patina wherever possible.

Please bear in mind you may find the usual markings with antique furniture that are commensurate with age which all add to beauty and uniqueness of the item.

VIEWINGS

We have a reputation for being long established antique dealers in London having had showrooms concurrently running in Islington, Chelsea and Ascot. We have relocated our new showroom, due to London overheads, easily reached between A1 or A10 to just outside of Hertford, Hertfordshire.

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We have more than 40 years experience in supplying Antique furniture to the trade, public and interior designers from all parts of the world so please buy with confidence as we have passed the test of time.