Lot Details

Description

A rosewood table inlaid with walnut, rosewood, boxwood, maple, green-tinted maple, and other unidentified woods. The most prestigious pieces of furniture bear the cartouche inscription "Maggiolini Intarsiatore delle LL. AA. RR. Parabiago presso Milano," certifying a patent granted to him by Ferdinand of Habsburg. The Archduke bestowed upon him the title of "Intarsiatore di Sua Altezza Reale" (Royal Highness’s Inlayer), which is found as a signature in the form of a cartouche on very few pieces of furniture that have survived to this day.

From the inscriptions on this piece, it is evident that it is one of the rare signed examples by the famous Milanese cabinetmaker. Throughout the last quarter of the 18th century, he was engaged in crafting elaborate furnishings for the court and the Milanese aristocracy. The simple yet elegant structure of the piece is enriched by an inlay depicting a floral composition.

At that time, Milan was bustling with preparations for the wedding of Ferdinand, son of Empress Maria Theresa, Archduke and Governor of Lombardy, to Archduchess Maria Beatrice d’Este. The Empress wished to prepare a fitting residence where splendor and luxury would abound. A commission, including Count Monti, Melzi, and Marquis Moriggia, was entrusted with the task. They summoned to court the most distinguished artists, architects, painters, sculptors, stucco workers, and cabinetmakers, including Maggiolini from Parabiago, who enthusiastically took on the challenge.

Jealousy nearly thwarted Maggiolini’s efforts early on. However, being good-natured yet resolute, he avoided conflict by returning to the tranquility of his hometown with his team of 12 craftsmen. After the wedding festivities in 1771, the Empress ordered restorations to the Court Palace under the direction of the renowned architect Piermarini from Foligno. On this occasion, and possibly influenced by Marquis Moriggia or painter Levati, Maggiolini was again called upon for parquetry work.

During this period, Maggiolini, with the help of his painter friend, connected with a circle of artists who soon became colleagues and close acquaintances. He also had the opportunity to meet and interact with the Archduke and his consort, who treated him with exceptional kindness, granting him, among other honors, the title of "Intarsiatore delle LL. AA. RR".

Dimensions

31,30in x 31,30in h:30,31in

Provenance

Private collection

Bibliography

Marangoni G., Gli intarsi di Giuseppe Maggiolini, "Città di Milano", a. XXXIV, n. 3, Milano 1918, p. 54.
Beretti G., González-Palacios A., Giuseppe Maggiolini. Catalogo ragionato dei disegni, Milano 2014, pp. 238-239.

Conditions

Imperfections and restorations. Non-original drawer handle.

Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each product to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Coradi Rare Finds is merely a subjective opinion.