Edelweiss marquetry side table Brienz Switzerland 1900

Decorative side table in walnut adorned with inlaid and painted scenes depicting chamois and edelweiss flowers, surrounded by marquetry in ebony and lime. Made around 1900 in Brienz, Switzerland. Very good original condition. The tradition of edelweiss furniture in Brienz dates back to the mid-19th century when locals used their craftsmanship skills to create a new industry. Many wood sculptors were trained at the Brienz School of Wood Sculpture, founded in 1884. By 1900, the industry had around 2000 sculptors. The sculptures from Brienz were showcased at several world exhibitions with great success. Today, some companies still carry on this tradition.