Round Tripod 'Rooster' Coffee Table in Bronze and Eglomise Mirror, Maison Charles, Circa 1940

This coffee table features a circular architectural structure resting on a heavy solid bronze tripod base. The rigor of the assembly is softened by an animalier ornamentation of exceptional chasing finesse. The three cabriole legs are topped, directly beneath the rim, by finely detailed rooster heads acting as supporting capitals. These uprights terminate at the base with the classic claw-and-ball motif, anchoring the piece. The stability of the frame is reinforced by a sinuous stretcher meeting a central drop from the top. The top itself, enclosed by a bronze rim, holds an eglomise mirror plate featuring a rich mottled pattern with grey and coppery nuances. The virtuosity of the bronze casting and the ornamental repertoire unmistakably mark a production by Maison Charles. Founded in 1908 by Ernest Charles in Paris, the manufactory rose to the pinnacle of French art foundries in the 20th century. Very good overall condition. With its 70 cm diameter, this sculptural table will authoritatively anchor the center of a classic or modernist living room.