Constructed in carved pine, gessoed and finished in mecca gilt, retaining traces of its original silvery surface intended to evoke the iridescent shimmer of marine life. The suite comprising a center table, a pair of armchairs, side chairs and a settee, each raised on stylized oyster-form supports and enriched with sculptural shell motifs. The seating with shell-form backs and elaborately modeled naturalistic ornament incorporating hippocamps, dolphins, dragons and fantastical marine elements in the celebrated Venetian grotto taste of the late nineteenth century. Wear consistent with age and use. Late 19th century, Venice Italy.