A striking and highly decorative french centre table in the opulent napoleon iii style, combining rich faux malachite veneers with finely cast gilt bronze mounts the circular top is inset with a series of hand-painted porcelain plaques, each depicting classical scenes, arranged around a central medallion these are framed within an intricately worked gilt bronze surround, giving the piece a jewel-like, museum-quality finish typical of french decorative arts of the late 19th century bought from a dealer on marche biron at paris antiques markets the base is particularly impressive, finished in vibrant malachite with bold scrolling ormolu mounts in the louis xv revival taste the tripod form terminates on a shaped plinth, creating a strong architectural presence while retaining elegance and fluidity of line. Dimensions are in inches (cm): width x depth x height 45 (114.3) x 45 (114.3) x 33 (83.8) ft