Italian Baroque period scagliola console tabletop

This beautiful Baroque period Italian tabletop is crafted from scagliola. Scagliola was hugely popular as a mode of decoration during the Baroque period, particularly in Italy. It is a composite substance made from plaster mixed with glue and various dyes. Scagliola is often used to imitate fine marbles and pietra dura inlays, though the technique allows for the production of intricate designs—as in the present example.

The tabletop is adorned with many decorative motifs linked to nature and games. Several playing cards and tokens are scattered among the more ornate, scrolling borders. Prominent birds are flanking the central composition. The dark colouration of the tabletop paired with the varied themes are synonymous with the Baroque style known for grandeur, drama, and rich symmetrical ornamentation.

Crafted by skilled 18th century Italian artists, this superb tabletop would be a magnificent and playful addition to one’s console table.