Antique French Walnut Gothic Revolving Book Stand ~ End Table with Marquetry

Antique French Walnut Gothic Revolving Book Stand ~ End Table with Marquetry is an ingenious invention that the English will probably claim, but the actual inventor has been lost to history.  This French expression was hand-crafted from local walnut, and features amazingly detailed marquetry inlaid into the circular top with satinwood bordering and a central artwork that expresses many different iterations of the cross, expressed in geometric shapes that date back to the 12th century in France.  Heart walnut, satinwood and fruitwoods were used to create color contrast sufficient to form the image which was meticulously and artfully cut out of the background walnut then inlaid to create a work of art!  The top is supported by a single shaft, around which two tiers of bookcases, again designed in cross form, are allowed to independently swivel.  Each projection features finely veneered walnut with a pierced gallery rail highlighted in gold painted trim and crafted in the Gothic style to hold various books in each projection.  The two tiers can swivel clockwise or counter-clockwise allowing one to remain seated whilst perusing the collection to make one's reading selection.  A three-legged base with conical feet designed for stability projects out slightly from the circumference but at a height lower than most chair bases, allowing this table to fit pretty much anywhere it's needed!  A remarkably well-preserved and ingenious instant family heirloom!
Circa late 1800s
Measures 30H x 23 in diameter