Semiprecious-stone table
1749 - 1763. Agate, Gilt-bronze, Chalcedony, Ebony wood, Jasper, Lapis lazuli, Paragone.Not on display
This tabletop forms a pair with O00467. Both were made at the Royal Manufactory founded by Charles III in Naples in 1737. This piece of ebony furniture made by Gaspero Donnini has heads carved by Giovanni Morghen at its four corners. They allude to the four seasons. The legs end in horse´s hooves as part of an elegant naturalist décor, which is repeated in the decoration of the top, with abundant fruit, birds, flowers and other animals. This buffet was probably made in the Naples workshops, which were very active during the second half of the eighteenth century in order to satisfy the decorative needs of the Spanish monarchs. These workshops were directed by Francesco Ghingi, who made the drawing and decorative models, relying on his team of craftsmen to fashion the overall piece.