Measuring 74 ½ inches long, this palatial gilt bronze mirrored surtout de table would make a wonderful centerpiece for a dining room table. Its towering jardiniere rises over 14 inches above the mirror, supported by ornate arms, each topped by a leaf margent crest. The shapely glass is encased within a sinuous gilded frame with six short, curvaceous legs in the form of curled leaves. Additional support is provided by a large leaf frond crest that extends beyond the deep moldings of the frame, next to the arms of the jardiniere. A large, scalloped leaf embellishes the jardiniere on the two sides not adjacent to the arms, both with a floral margent beneath that span across the top of a shapely console surmounting the lobed ground. The neck is adorned with spiral fluting, just above the undulating base with scrolled leaf feet.

A surtout de table was designed to enhance the visual appeal of the table setting during grand dinners and banquets. They were particularly popular during the 18th and 19th centuries among European aristocracy and upper-class circles. A piece as substantial as this would have been used to showcase the host’s wealth, taste, and social status. Our gilt bronze surtout de table can be displayed as is, but it would further augment a dining room with a floral bouquet in the jardiniere.

CONDITION: Good antique condition. Minor rubs and scratches to the mirror, coupled with slight loss of silvering, which is a desired trait. Light build up to bronze frame. Old restoration work, including the addition of attaching bolts, which are not necessary as the bronze centerpiece is substantial enough to support itself.