French Kingwood and Marquetry Inlaid Kidney Shaped Side Table

A magnificent French Kingwood and Marquetry Inlaid Kidney Shaped Side Table, crafted in the 18th century style of Charles Topino and dating to the late 19th century. This exquisite piece showcases exceptional craftsmanship with striking marquetry inlays that create a beautiful visual contrast.

The kidney-shaped table features a pierced brass lattice gallery that encircles the inlaid top, which depicts a charming scene of a fruit and flower basket to the foreground, set against a picturesque background of trees and birds. Below, two concave drawers adorned with decorative inlay and cross-banding veneers add to the table's elegance. Each drawer is fitted with ormolu escutcheons and comes with a working lock and key. The convex sides and back also feature wonderfully detailed classical urns overflowing with fruit and flower detail.

The lower shelf mirrors the intricate design of the tabletop, also boasting exquisite inlays. The table stands gracefully on elegant tapering sabre legs, completing its sophisticated look.

Provenance: This piece comes from the esteemed collection of the late George Farrow.

George F. Farrow (1916-2001) was born in Greenwich, South London, and lived there until after World War II. Educated locally, he became a Chartered Surveyor through evening classes. During the war, he was stationed in London, assisting the R.A.F with logistics. After the war, he expanded a small property development firm into one of Britain's largest private landlords.

In the 1950s, Farrow began collecting European bronzes. Due to health issues, he retired in 1966, moving first to San Remo and then Monte Carlo before settling in Jersey, Channel Islands, in 1971. There, he and his family renovated Anne Port Farm, which housed his extensive antique collection. Farrow lived there until his death in 2001.

The Farrow Art Collection includes Italian and European art, furniture, paintings, Oriental carpets, and Chinese art. Farrow meticulously catalogued his collection, expressing a lifelong fascination with Oriental rugs, inspired by visits to The Horniman Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum during his youth.