Antique French ormolu mounted tea table attributed to Sormani

Attributed to Paul Sormani (1817-1877), the renowned French cabinetmaker, this magnificent tea table showcases the highest quality cabinetmaking skills.  

This luxurious tea table is composed of two tiers. The top tier is oval and includes a glass and ormolu tray inset while the larger tier is crafted from wood, its surface adorned with beautiful quarter veneered panels. The glass tray is removable and exposes a tabletop of a similar design as the one below. Twin handles are of a refined shape with acanthus leaf detailing, a feature that can be observed throughout the ormolu mounts on this stunning furniture piece.

The triple tablet frieze is further mounted with matching ormolu mounts cast in shapes relating to the natural world. The table is supported by four cabriole legs, each mounted with ormolu ‘C’ scroll mounts. The legs terminate in ormolu sabots.

Tea tables were first introduced in the 18th century when tea drinking grew increasingly popular amongst the elite. At the time it was believed that tea had medicinal properties, but as it was difficult to obtain and very expensive, this drink was also considered a status symbol. Traditionally, tea would be brought in on the glass tray which would then be neatly presented on the top tier of the table.  The lower tier could be used for the display of plates, cups, or cakes.

The multifunctional tea table can be used to display a selection of objects, and the twin handles on both the top and bottom tiers make this an easily movable furniture piece.