Pair of Napoleon III Faux Bamboo Plant Stands w/ Folding Tripod Bases - 43¾"

A pair of chic Napoleon III plant stands, late 19th century, in ebonized wood carved in the faux bamboo manner. Each slender tripod stand is composed of turned, bamboo-form legs with knotted nodes, joined at the center and rising to support a circular removable top pierced with three openings to receive the legs. Small brass finials cap the uprights, adding a subtle decorative accent. The trays lift off and the legs fold for easy storage. One stand is very subtly higher than the other. The deep black finish has a soft sheen, with light age wear, scattered old wormholes, and slight play in the joints consistent with use.

These elegant stands reflect the period’s taste for Japonisme and chinoiserie, with dark finishes evoking lacquer and wood shaped to resemble bamboo. The crisp turning and practical folding design reflects the period's interest in portable furnishings for winter gardens and salons.

Versatile and graceful, they work beautifully flanking a window or doorway, displaying a vase or artwork, or adding height to a conservatory setting. They sit equally well in contemporary or traditional interiors, introducing a clean, graphic vertical accent.