18th Century, Two Italian Rococo Lacquered Wood Side Table

Two elegant and rare pair of barocchetto side tables in carved and lacquered wood, Piedmont in Italy , mid 18th century, similar in provenance and decorative taste yet distinct in function and colour scheme.
Side table with leather top, dimensions: L 56 × D 45 × H 74 cm.
Side table with faux marble top, dimensions: L 53 × D 42 × H 75 cm.

The first table, shown on the left in the photo, features a refined quadrangular top with a gilt, sinuous moulded edge and rounded lobed corners, centred by a leather panel with an elegant gold tooled reserve.
The structure is entirely in carved wood, lacquered in bluish green tones with gilt highlights; the frieze below the top, slightly flaring downwards and fitted with a drawer with rocaille bronze escutcheon and key, is enlivened by rich gilt vegetal and floral ornaments in cast gesso that continue along the sides and the back, with asymmetrical motifs not framed within borders, particularly sophisticated for the period.
The sinuous lower profile is underscored by a thin gilt fillet, while on the left side there is a practical pull out wooden shelf, originally designed to support a candle and now useful as a small writing surface or additional support.
The four high, arched legs, shaped and slightly tapered towards the bottom, are likewise lacquered and enriched with gilt fillets and rocaille motifs that emphasise their slender outline.
The table is finished on all sides and is also suitable for placement in the centre of a room.
The second table, of the same period and also from Piedmont, Italy, has a quadrangular top with gilt, sinuous moulded edge and lobed corners, painted as faux marble to simulate a precious stone slab and to dialogue with the décor taste of the time.
The lacquer, in warm off white tones with rich gilding, creates a bright, light effect while maintaining the same barocchetto elegance.
The frieze below the top, organised around the central drawer, is decorated with gilt vegetal and floral ornaments in cast gesso framed within a border, while on the sides and back runs a refined decoration of flowers and leafy ramages in gold on a lacquered ground, rare and of markedly rocaille taste.
Here again, the sinuous lower profile is underlined by gilt fillets, and the four arched, shaped legs, fully lacquered and embellished with sparkling rocaille motifs, lend lightness and movement to the whole.
The table is finished on all sides and is ideal for placement at the centre of a sophisticated setting.
Although not identical, the two tables form a harmonious pair in terms of proportions, period, provenance and style, united by the same Piedmontese barocchetto spirit and by rich all round floral and rocaille decoration.
The different finishes of the tops create a refined dialogue between function and colour, making them perfect as a pair of small tables for a drawing room or entrance hall, as well as theatrical bedside tables beside an important bed.
Both tables will undergo light conservation treatment, intended to preserve their historical patina and original decorative freshness, making them ready to be placed in both classical and eclectic interiors.