{"title":"Onyx in the Decorative Arts: A Testament to Timeless Elegance","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"186\" data-end=\"532\"\u003eOnyx, a semi-precious variety of chalcedony, has captivated artisans and collectors for centuries with its striking banded patterns, smooth texture, and ability to take a fine polish. Known for its translucency and parallel layers of contrasting colour, onyx has been used across cultures and periods to create objects of refinement and luxury.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"534\" data-end=\"562\"\u003eOrigins and Properties\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"563\" data-end=\"886\"\u003eThe name \u003cem data-start=\"572\" data-end=\"578\"\u003eonyx\u003c\/em\u003e comes from the Greek word for “nail” or “claw,” referencing its layered appearance. While black-and-white striations are most common, onyx also occurs in shades of brown, red, and green. Its natural banding, combined with its polish and translucency, makes it ideal for carving, inlay, and ornamental use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"888\" data-end=\"908\"\u003eHistorical Use\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"909\" data-end=\"1226\"\u003eIn antiquity, the Romans prized onyx for cameos and intaglios, carving its layers to dramatic effect in miniature portraits and mythological scenes. During the Renaissance, the stone reappeared in decorative arts, employed for vases, urns, jewellery, and intricate inlay work that highlighted its colourful veining.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1228\" data-end=\"1562\"\u003eIn the 19th and early 20th centuries, onyx enjoyed a renewed vogue. The bold contrasts of the stone suited the elegance of the Art Deco movement, where it was widely used in lamps, clocks, sculptures, and architectural interiors. Its sleek polish and dramatic banding reinforced the movement’s emphasis on geometric form and luxury.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1564\" data-end=\"1585\"\u003eEnduring Legacy\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1586\" data-end=\"1887\"\u003eFrom ancient cameos to Art Deco interiors, onyx has remained a favoured material in the decorative arts, admired for both its beauty and versatility. Its timeless appeal lies in the interplay of natural pattern and human craftsmanship—a union that continues to inspire artisans and collectors alike.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"mid-century-onyx-verde-antico-brass-coffee-table","title":"Mid Century Onyx, Verde Antico, Brass Coffee Table","description":"\u003cp\u003eMid Century Onyx, Verde Antico, Brass Coffee Table\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA sophisticated example of Italian mid-century craftsmanship, this coffee table exemplifies the elegance and innovation characteristic of the period. Merging Italian provenance with a refined modernist style, this piece radiates timeless appeal and is a remarkable highlight for any interior.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOrigin: Italy\u003cbr\u003eDate: Circa 1960\u003cbr\u003eMaterial: Onyx, Verde Antico marble, brass\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDimensions: Height: 49.5 cm (19.5 ins), Width: 101 cm (40 ins), Depth: 54 cm (21.5 ins)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCondition: Excellent condition, with a fine patina commensurate with age, displaying only minor, expected signs of use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRepresentative of the finest early 20th-century Italian low tables, this coffee table integrates sumptuous materials with meticulous design. Its use of rich onyx and luxurious Verde Antico marble reflects mid-century Italian design’s focus on natural beauty and bold yet harmonious contrast. Comparisons can be drawn to similar pieces by leading Italian modernists in collections such as the Triennale Design Museum in Milan, illustrating its significance in European decorative arts of the time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNotable Features:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExceptional craftsmanship is evident in the precision-cut onyx and Verde Antico marble top, exuding richness and natural variation unique to each piece of stone.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eElegant brass framing enhances the table’s sculptural quality, blending sleek lines with subtly tapered legs for a touch of understated glamour.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe combination of rare materials, refined proportions, and mid-century authenticity make this coffee table a sought-after addition for collectors of Italian modernist furniture.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHighly versatile, this coffee table serves equally well as a centrepiece in a sophisticated sitting room, a practical everyday furnishing, or a focal point for a carefully curated mid-century collection.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis mid-century onyx, Verde Antico, and brass coffee table is not only an outstanding example of Italian design but also a rare and collectable object for the discerning connoisseur. Its marriage of exquisite materials, period significance, and functional elegance ensures its continued appreciation in both historical contexts and contemporary interiors.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Nwtiques","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51153758716241,"sku":"3516","price":3900.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0935\/5873\/5185\/files\/very-fine-and-rare-early-20th-century-italian-onyx-and-verde-antico-cocktail-or-coffee-tail-circa-1935.webp?v=1747992365"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0935\/5873\/5185\/collections\/very-fine-and-rare-early-20th-century-italian-onyx-and-verde-antico-cocktail-or-coffee-tail-circa-1935.webp?v=1757805359","url":"https:\/\/nwtiques.com\/collections\/onyx.oembed","provider":"Nicholas Wells Antiques","version":"1.0","type":"link"}