A Viennese Baroque pewter and brass-inlaid parcel-gilt ebony console table circa 1700

With scattered age and construction cracks, dents and abrasions. Pewter and brass inlay with lifting, small restorations and losses with some detached pieces present. Top with later clear varnish; now with active flaking. Some losses and abrasions to carving. Some pieces of moulding detached with some detached pieces present. Regilt, gilding with losses and surface dirt. Back of stretcher replaced, feet possibly later. In good overall condition.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Comparable literature:
Heinrich Kreissel, Die Kunst des Deutschen Möbels, Spätbarock und Rokoko, Munich, 1970, vol. II, ill. 391, 392 and 393 (for comparable feet).
A Viennese table of comparable shape was sold Sotheby's New York, November 18, 2010, lot 186.

The intricate leaf-ornaments and strapwork on this distinctive table relates it to several examples of Viennese Boulle furniture. The style seen on many of these works can be traced to the influence of ornamental print designs by Johann Eysler as well as Paul Decker the Elder (1677-1713), whose engravings exhibit the influence of Jean Berain the Elder (1661-1752) and Daniel Marot (1661-1752).

The Viennese court highly prized Boulle-work and employed Flemish and German craftsmen to produce it for their residences. One of the largest documented commissions was from Marie Christine, Princess of Salm (1655-1744), who discusses it in letters to her older brother, Leopold I, Holy Roman Emperor, King of Hungary, King of Bohemia (1640-1705). In the Hofburg Palace, Vienna, a desk commissioned by Leopold I and bearing his coat of arms, has closely related etched foliate strapwork and probably after etchings by Johann Eysler. It is thought to be the oldest documented example of Viennese Boulle furniture.