Émile Gallé Set of Four "Sunflower and Thistle" Nesting Tables

This exquisite set of four nesting tables showcases a vibrant bouquet of sunflowers, thistles of Lorraine in various stages of bloom, and a kaleidoscope of butterflies. The sunflower, a symbol of Provence, evokes the region’s iconic golden fields that captivate visitors from around the world. The thistle, emblematic of the Duchy of Lorraine, gained significance as a symbol of French patriotism after the Franco-Prussian War of 1870, representing the nation's enduring hope for the return of Alsace and Lorraine. The tables feature particularly ornate carvings of thistles on their aprons, complemented by exceptional marquetry scenes on the tabletops. These intricate details make this model one of Gallé's finest examples of craftsmanship.