Circa 1970s Italian Marquetry Metamorphic Roulette Game Table & 2 Chairs

Details

Description

An exceptional circa-1970s Italian marquetry metamorphic game table with two matching inlaid chairs, concealing an elaborate fitted roulette and multi-game … Read more An exceptional circa-1970s Italian marquetry metamorphic game table with two matching inlaid chairs, concealing an elaborate fitted roulette and multi-game interior beneath its richly decorated top.

When closed, the table presents as an elegant Italian parlor or card table, with clipped corners and a richly figured veneered top embellished with intricate floral and foliate marquetry. The decorative treatment continues across the apron and gracefully tapered legs, creating an unusually detailed piece even before its concealed gaming functions are revealed.

The layered top transforms through multiple configurations. Opening the table reveals a fitted gaming interior centered around its removable roulette wheel, flanked by twin green roulette betting layouts and numerous built-in hardwood compartments designed for cards, chips and gaming accessories. An additional reversible surface provides a chess/checkers board, allowing the table to transition between an elegant occasional table and a complete entertainment piece.

Particularly noteworthy is the surviving original Italian roulette instruction sheet, headed “Giuoco della Roulette.” Preserved with the table, this period document is an especially appealing original detail and further supports the set’s Italian origin and intended roulette function.

The two matching chairs complete the ensemble. Each features beautifully figured veneers across the seat and curved backrest, enriched with intricate multiwood floral marquetry that complements the decoration of the table. Their slender tapered legs echo the elegant proportions of the table and give the complete three-piece set a remarkably cohesive appearance.

The combination of extensive marquetry, metamorphic construction, multiple concealed gaming surfaces, fitted roulette interior, matching seating and surviving Italian instructions makes this an unusually complete and highly decorative example of late-20th-century Italian entertainment furniture.

Equally compelling displayed closed as a sophisticated parlor table or opened to reveal its elaborate gaming interior, the set would make a distinctive statement in a library, game room, lounge or collected interior.

Dimensions

Table: 29” W × 29” D × approximately 29–30” H
Each chair: 17” W × 17” D × 33.5” H
Seat height: 17.5”

Condition

Excellent vintage condition overall. The marquetry and figured veneers remain beautifully preserved, with light age-appropriate wear. Minor wear is present where the chair back uprights meet the seats, consistent with normal use and age; both chairs remain structurally sound and stable. The roulette wheel, betting surfaces, fitted wooden interior and additional gaming surfaces are well preserved. Please refer to photographs for additional condition details.

Origin: Italy
Date: Circa 1970s
Style: Italian marquetry / Sorrento tradition
Included: Table, two matching chairs, roulette wheel, roulette betting surfaces, chess/checkers surface and original Italian roulette instruction sheet. See less