Antique Victorian Kingwood Porcelain and Ormolu Console Card Table by G T Morant

An exceptional antique Victorian kingwood console and card table by G T Morant of Bond Street, London, dating to circa 1850. A magnificent example of mid-19th-century English cabinetmaking, combining beautifully figured kingwood veneers, exquisite hand-painted porcelain plaques, intricate marquetry and finely cast ormolu mounts. This outstanding piece is designed to serve as an elegant console table, opening to reveal a beautifully decorated games table.

The magnificent serpentine-shaped top displays superbly figured and quarter-matched kingwood veneers, with intricate crossbanding, contrasting inlaid borders and an elegant brass edge following the beautifully shaped outline. The top swivels and unfolds to reveal a green baize-lined playing surface surrounded by exceptional marquetry decoration, incorporating four beautifully shaped corner designs with circular counter wells.

The shaped frieze is particularly impressive, featuring five exquisite hand-painted porcelain plaques set within elaborate gilt bronze ormolu frames. The central oval plaque depicts two colourful birds perched amongst foliage, while the surrounding plaques are beautifully decorated with delicate floral arrangements in vibrant colours. The quality of the porcelain painting and the intricacy of the surrounding ormolu mounts are truly remarkable.

Standing on four elegant, shaped cabriole legs, the table is further enhanced by finely cast ormolu mounts to the shoulders and decorative gilt bronze sabots to the feet. The graceful proportions, richly figured veneers and beautifully detailed gilt bronze decoration demonstrate an extraordinary level of craftsmanship.

Made by G T Morant of Bond Street, London, a distinguished 19th-century cabinetmaking firm renowned for producing furniture of exceptional quality, this magnificent antique console table represents the finest traditions of Victorian furniture design. The combination of kingwood, porcelain, marquetry and ormolu is particularly striking, creating a piece of exceptional elegance and decorative appeal.

A rare and highly desirable antique Victorian console, card and games table of outstanding quality. Equally impressive displayed closed as a decorative hallway, drawing room or living room console table, or opened for use as a card table. A truly magnificent and versatile piece of antique furniture, displaying exceptional attention to detail.

Condition Report

Wonderful condition, displaying a beautiful polished finish with minor age-related marks and wear consistent with its age. The kingwood veneers retain their attractive figuring, while the porcelain plaques and ormolu mounts present beautifully. The swivelling and folding top opens to reveal the green baize-lined playing surface.

Measurements

Height: 76 cm (29.92 in)

Width: 93.5 cm (36.81 in)

Depth: 46 cm (18.11 in)

Depth when open: 93 cm (36.61 in)

Date: Circa 1850

Origin: English

Maker: G T Morant, Bond Street, London