| The influence of the French on
furniture design has been extensive for
centuries. During the reign of King Louis XIV—a
man of extravagant tastes reflecting his
strength, wealth and power—cabinets were built
largely according to Italian designs. Louis’
insistence on creating a uniquely French culture
led him to urge his best designers to create a
distinctively French look. Departing from the
flat surfaces of early Renaissance furniture,
Louis encouraged the use of elaborate carving
and scrollwork, richly chased fruit and floral
motifs, swags and leafage in a free
interpretation of the Renaissance’s classical
lines and proportions. In this table, Renowned
American Furniture designer and cabinet maker
Charles A. Porter has created a modern French
masterpiece. It is a unique table, designed both
as a historic showpiece and as a practical
piece. |
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| Rails: Hand Selected African
Sedua, in laid genuine mother-of-pearl diamond
sites. |
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| Cabinet: Solid Alder. |
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| Slate: Matched 1” thick,
diamond honed to precise dimensions for a
professional playing surface. Frame backed with
poplar hardwood for increased durability. |
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