Lot #2: Antique Black & Gold Chinoiserie Pedestal Side Table

This striking pedestal side table showcases the enduring elegance of chinoiserie decoration — a Western interpretation of East Asian artistic traditions that was enormously fashionable in Victorian and Edwardian parlors. The black lacquered top features hand-painted or stenciled gold botanical and figural motifs including flowering branches, birds, and delicate latticework, all hallmarks of the japanned furniture tradition popularized in 18th and 19th century England and America. The table rests on a beautifully turned central pedestal with acanthus leaf detailing at the collar, supported by a dramatic four-leg scrolled base with curved feet — a form reminiscent of late Victorian and Edwardian parlor furniture designed for displaying decorative objects or as a lamp table beside a settee. The combination of wrought-style ironwork base and painted wooden top suggests either a quality period piece or a well-executed early 20th century reproduction in the antique style. Chinoiserie furniture of this character is perennially sought by collectors of Victorian décor, maximalist interior designers, and lovers of the 'dark academia' and Gothic aesthetic. This table would be a commanding accent piece in a library, bedroom, or formal sitting room, and its worn patina only adds to its authentic antique charm. Significant crazing and wear to the lacquered chinoiserie surface on top; gold stencil/painted decoration is faded and scratched throughout; base shows paint loss and wear but structure appears solid; overall patina consistent with age Pickup category timeslot {A}