Round Tripod "Rooster" Coffee Table in Bronze and Eglomise Mirror, Maison Charles, Circa 1940.

This coffee table features a circular architectural structure resting on a heavy solid bronze tripod base. The rigor of the assembly is softened by an animalier ornamentation of exceptional chasing finesse. The three cabriole legs are topped, directly beneath the rim, by finely detailed rooster heads acting as supporting capitals. These uprights terminate at the base with the classic claw-and-ball motif (bird talons grasping spheres), anchoring the piece. The stability of the frame is reinforced by a sinuous stretcher meeting a central drop from the top. The top itself, enclosed by a bronze rim, holds an eglomise mirror plate (distressed glass) featuring a rich mottled pattern with grey and coppery nuances.

The virtuosity of the bronze casting and the ornamental repertoire (blending the classic bestiary with a revived Empire style) unmistakably mark a production by Maison Charles. Founded in 1908 by Ernest Charles in Paris, the manufactory rose to the pinnacle of French art foundries in the 20th century. Renowned for the excellence of its bronze workers and chasers, Maison Charles specialized in integrating animal motifs (horses, eagles, roosters, pinecones) into highly luxurious lighting and occasional furniture, intended to furnish the mansions of the upper bourgeoisie.

Condition report: Very good overall condition. The solid bronze structure displays a natural and even patina of use, with discreet traces of oxidation in the recesses of the chasing guaranteeing its age. The eglomise mirror top is intact. With its 70 cm diameter, this sculptural table will authoritatively anchor the center of a classic or modernist living room.