Irish Victorian Giltwood Side Table and Mirror, by Arthur Jo...

Estimate

€20,000 - €30,000

Irish Victorian Giltwood Side Table and Mirror, by Arthur Jones, 135 St Stephens Green, Dublin, 1853.

The "Table of Ireland"  Exhibited at The Irish Industrial Exhibition, Dublin, 1853,  Table: 205cms wide x 99cms high (81" x 39"); Mirror: 178cms wide x 08cms high (70" x 82"). (1)

This highly significant Irish giltwood side table and mirror, crafted by Arthur Jones & Sons for the Great Exhibition of 1853, is a superb example of mid-19th century Irish craftsmanship and nationalist symbolism. Commonly referred to as "The Table of Ireland," this piece captures the essence of Irish identity and national pride through a complex composition of decorative motifs.
The elaborate design prominently features a finely carved harp, symbolizing Irish music and cultural heritage. At the tops of the table's legs, intricately carved masks of an old bearded man, crowned with a hat of shamrocks, evoke the spirit of ancient Ireland. These figures, blending wisdom and national identity, symbolize the enduring connection between the Irish people and their land, with the shamrock representing unity and resilience.
One side of the mirror features a tall, circular Irish high tower, a symbol of ancient monastic heritage, while the other showcases a sturdy medieval tower house, representing Ireland’s turbulent feudal past and the resilience of its people through centuries of conflict. Together, they evoke the dual legacies of spiritual endurance and military defence. The inclusion of oak leaves signifies strength and endurance, both key themes in Irish folklore and history, while the acorns, the seeds of the oak, signify potential and growth, symbolizing the promise of future strength and development. On opposite sides of the mirror frame, a saintly figure gently playing a harp stands in stark contrast to a warrior poised to draw his sword, symbolizing the dual forces of peace and conflict that have shaped Ireland’s history. The mirror is crested by Hibernia sat solemnly on a sword, her weary form leaning against the harp as the Celtic high cross loomed behind her, a silent testament to the enduring trials of her people. Hibernia’s weary depiction, contrasted with symbols of struggle and recovery, vividly reflects the deep impact of the Great Famine on Ireland and its people. By embodying these themes, the representation of Hibernia links the piece of furniture to a crucial historical and cultural moment, underscoring the challenges faced and the strength needed to overcome them.
Arthur Jones cabinetmakers, renowned for their mastery in wood carving and gilding, have expertly combined elements of Irish nationalism with Victorian grandeur in this work, demonstrating the country’s rich artistic traditions and its growing desire for national recognition. Exhibited at the Dublin International Exhibition of 1853, this table and mirror stood as a proud representation of Irish craftsmanship on the world stage, capturing the imagination of both local and international audiences.
This piece remains a powerful reminder of Ireland’s cultural identity during the Victorian era, symbolizing the country's complex history and the ongoing quest for self-determination.
Mr. Edmund Joyce, 2024