A Classic-Modernist circular table

Argentina, circa 1938

A fine quality bronze, iron and marble gueridon by Comte in the restrained neoclassical taste of the mid 1930’s. 

This gueridon is a re-interpretation of one of the most enduring neoclassical models of the Louis XVI period, at the end of the 18th century. The form found renewed popularity in the late 19th century, and again in the interwar years of the Twentieth. This is an exceptionally well made example, with notably fine casting of the gilt-bronze legs and handles.

 It retains a purity of line and an elegant lack of ornamentation, in contrast to the overly embellished revivalism of the preceding century. The decorative elements have been reduced to their essence, and given an almost modernist purity. The deeply fluted, twisted spiral of the handles contrast with the simple solidity of the ball feet and the rigid geometry of the legs between.

 The table was made by the Buenos Aires firm of Comte for Sebastian Peyrera Iraola. The close collaboration between Comte and Jean-Michel Frank, and other Paris based designers, from 1930 onwards, bought the pared-down elegance of French classic-modernism of the 1930’s to the European educated elite of South America.