Black Forest Hand Carved Tea Table.

c. 1830 -1850

An exceptional 19th century rustic black forest side table, finely and intricately hand carved by a master craftsmen of the Swiss region of Brienz.
 
At the end of the Napoleonic Wars, as the continent of Europe reopened to wealthy British travellers, Lake Brienz emerged as a popular stopover for gentlemen undertaking a Grand Tour. As travellers returned home with their Grand Tour souvenirs, so in turn the reputation of the Brienz craftsmen was greatly enhanced, and the town soon became synonymous with fine wood carving. Brienz artists were encouraged to exhibit their works worldwide, notably winning several medals at the Great Exhibition of 1851 in London. The types of wood most commonly used in Brienz carving are Linden and Walnut. 
 
During the 19th century, master carvers in the Black Forest region  adopted popular European styles, including Rococo as Romanticism swept Europe. You can find these early Renaissance, Rococo-inspired Black Forest pieces though they are less common than the classic animal carvings. These pieces retain Rococo's characteristic 'C' and  'S' curves and decorative surfaces, but combine them with the highly detailed, naturalistic woodcarving style of the Black Forest region. This uncommon piece exemplifies this,  and the attention to detail is actually breath taking.

A one-of-a-kind whimsical, conversational piece, retaining exceptional colour and patina throughout. Totally original, and in excellent condition.

H: 26 inches (66.04cm)
W: 20.5 inches  (52 .07cm)