Important circular top in black marble from Belgium, Rome, 19th cent. finely inlaid in rich radial sampling of polychrome marbles and semiprecious stones: at center a star motif surrounds a circular micromosaic plaque with a view of the Roman Forum. Gilt wood base richly carved with floral and foliate motifs enriched with female heads; scrolled legs joined by crosspieces centered by a vase of flowers, 91x105 cm (some lack at base)

Composed of several subsidiaries, the Drouot Group is a major player in the art market. Hôtel Drouot, located in the heart of Paris, has been the world's largest public auction center since 1852. 15 salerooms are available to more than 70 auction houses. The emulation generated by an annual offer of 230,000 artworks from 21 major specialities - from Antiquity to street art - attracts some 3,000 visitors every day. The Group's digital platform, Drouot.com, offers digital sales - Live auctions (live broadcasting and participation in auctions), Online-only auctions (dematerialised auctions) and Buy Now sales (sales of lots at fixed prices). Nearly 2 million items are offered annually by 600 auction houses. Auction news is reported every week in La Gazette Drouot, the leading weekly magazine for the art market and culture published by Auctionspress.