This exceptional antique accent table features a magnificent, authentic mid-19th century British papier-mâché tray, beautifully repurposed on a later custom ebonized wood low stand. Crafted during the height of the English papier-mâché boom, the heavy-gauge, baked-pulp tray displays the characteristic warmth, dense weight, and solid acoustic resonance unique to premier period craftsmanship.
The tray’s surface features a stunning example of the era's coveted Animalier genre. At its center is a finely hand-painted portrait depicting a trio of alert, early working terriers, showing the foundational characteristics of the Fox Terrier and Jack Russell lines. Hand-painted in the distinct, energetic style of the celebrated Victorian animal painter George Armfield, the canine trio features classic button ears, expressive almond eyes, and rich tricolor coats set against a deep burgundy backdrop. The perimeter is framed by a rich, multi-tiered border of exquisite gold-gilded stenciling, utilizing repeating leaf scrolls and ornamental crests against a deep black japanned ground.
While unsigned—a common occurrence due to thick layers of historic asphaltum lacquer settling over blind-stamps—the exceptional caliber of the molded form, flawless gilded linework, and artistic execution allows for a confident attribution to a premier Victorian manufacturer of the era, such as Jennens & Bettridge or B. Walton & Co. of Birmingham.
The painted surface showcases a marvelous, uniform network of fine craquelure age-cracking throughout the original protective varnish, serving as a gorgeous testament to its 150+ year history. Balancing historic utility with decorative elegance, this heirloom piece makes a sophisticated statement in any traditional library, drawing room, or living room.
Size: 19” H x 35” W x 28.5” D
C. 1860, England
This exceptional antique accent table features a magnificent, authentic mid-19th century British papier-mâché tray, beautifully repurposed on a later custom ebonized wood low stand. Crafted during the height of the English papier-mâché boom, the heavy-gauge, baked-pulp tray displays the characteristic warmth, dense weight, and solid acoustic resonance unique to premier period craftsmanship.
The tray’s surface features a stunning example of the era's coveted Animalier genre. At its center is a finely hand-painted portrait depicting a trio of alert, early working terriers, showing the foundational characteristics of the Fox Terrier and Jack Russell lines. Hand-painted in the distinct, energetic style of the celebrated Victorian animal painter George Armfield, the canine trio features classic button ears, expressive almond eyes, and rich tricolor coats set against a deep burgundy backdrop. The perimeter is framed by a rich, multi-tiered border of exquisite gold-gilded stenciling, utilizing repeating leaf scrolls and ornamental crests against a deep black japanned ground.
While unsigned—a common occurrence due to thick layers of historic asphaltum lacquer settling over blind-stamps—the exceptional caliber of the molded form, flawless gilded linework, and artistic execution allows for a confident attribution to a premier Victorian manufacturer of the era, such as Jennens & Bettridge or B. Walton & Co. of Birmingham.
The painted surface showcases a marvelous, uniform network of fine craquelure age-cracking throughout the original protective varnish, serving as a gorgeous testament to its 150+ year history. Balancing historic utility with decorative elegance, this heirloom piece makes a sophisticated statement in any traditional library, drawing room, or living room.
Size: 19” H x 35” W x 28.5” D
C. 1860, England
