Paire de guéridons en bronze doré, albâtre et marbre blanc, travail russe de la fin du XVIIIe siècle, les galeries des plateaux français du début du XIXe siècle

le plateau de forme circulaire ceint d'une galerie ajourée à décor de coupe, béliers et guirlandes de pampres de vigne ; reposant sur un piètement tripode se terminant par des enroulements de bronze doré retenant en son centre un vase en albâtre ; la base formant une plinthe évidée reposant sur des pieds en boule applatie

Vente Christie’s New York, le 20 octobre 2007, lot 157 

The illustration is accurate. Both tops have been probably associated to the bases during the early 19th century. Good overall condition. The pair of gueridons have been nicely restored 6 years ago by a renowned Parisian restorer. The gilding is original and has been gently cleaned. The colour of the gilding is now very nice. As stated in the catalogue description, the ormolu rims of both tops are originally the rims of a pair of French Empire surtouts de table (table center piece). A flower of the lower rim and six small goat tails were missing and they have been recreated by the restorer. It is very difficult to see any difference. Both marble tops have been gently cleaned and slightly repolished and they are possibly later. Both bases are Russian, early 19th century. The neck of an alabaster urn bears some old restored cracks which are only visible to close examination. Both bases and both urns have been gently cleaned and slightly repolished. Very elegant model with an very nice chasing and gilding which is original. They are now ready to be placed.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Les bases de ces guéridons sont pratiquement identiques à celles d'une paire d'athéniennes en marbre blanc monté de la collection Talleyrand vendu chez Christie's à Paris le 26 novembre 2005, lot 72. Il est intéressant de noter que Hélie de Talleyrand s'était rendu à Berlin pour les ventes les plus importantes des collections de l'Empire russe organisées par les Soviétiques dans les années 30.

Les galeries ornées de boucs et de coupes de vin des plateaux de nos guéridons semblent réemployer des galeries de surtout de table dont Thomire s'était fait une spécialité sous l'Empire.