Pair of Early 19th Century Italian Rosewood Console Tables

Pair of early 19th Century Italian antique rosewood console tables in the French Empire taste which swept Europe in the period, these fine tables are of relatively simple form but very decorative due to their use of striking veneers and contrasting colours. Standing on flattened bun feet, the tables employ concave platform stretchers and four legs - two ebonised cabriole legs to the front contrasting with the two straight legs in rosewood at the rear. The friezes are inlaid with elliptical panels, the centres of particularly dark rosewood, outlined in lighter timber. The veneers on the tops are very attractive and figured and unusually the maker has chosen to lay the veneers front to back rather than from side to side. Pairs of console tables are always sought after and these mellow and attractive examples would enhance many interior schemes. They have a particular Italian flair despite their French inspiration and are practical and extremely attractive.