The Stunning Look of Gonçalo Alves – New Arrivals from Regent Antiques

In this post, we introduce you to a truly stunning type of wood and some of our new arrivals that feature it. Gonçalo Alves, also known as tigerwood, features a dramatic, intense, and varied color scheme that brings out the most dedicated and passionate of collectors.

Gonçalo Alves is a dense tropical hardwood. The name itself is Portuguese, a combination of a given name and a surname. “Gonçalo” means “battle” or “war,” derived from the Germanic elements gund (battle) and sal (bold, powerful warrior). “Alves” is a Portuguese patronymic surname meaning “son of Alvo,” though its exact origins are uncertain. Altogether, the name Gonçalo Alves might be interpreted as “son of Alves, a bold warrior”—a fitting name for such a resilient and commanding wood.

Two main species are commonly identified as sources of Gonçalo Alves: Astronium fraxinifolium and Astronium graveolens. Other species within the Astronium genus may also yield similar wood, though the degree of striping can vary significantly.

This exceptional hardwood grows in the tropical forests of Central and South America, thriving in well-drained soils that nourish a range of dense, durable species. These forests have long been harvested for their valuable timber. Beginning in the early 1500s, the Spanish extracted hardwoods for maritime construction. By the 20th century, as wooden ships gave way to steel, interest in these forests shifted to decorative woods used for fine furniture and architectural accents.

While historical records don’t provide a definitive list of the woods harvested during these eras, it’s likely that Gonçalo Alves has been prized for centuries. Renowned for its strength, density, and beautiful appearance, it has traditionally been used for structural purposes in its native regions, while internationally it’s valued for high-end furniture, cabinetry, and decorative veneers.

Let us now see how this amazing wood can be put to use with this stunning antique George IV Gonçalo Alves writing table from the early 19th century.

This monumental early George IV antique library writing table has a rectangular top with a moulded edge with the original inset green leather writing surface that features beautiful hand-tooled and impressed gilt decoration. It has two large drawers to the frieze and is raised on four turned, tapering, and reeded carved legs that terminate in their original brass cup castors.

Finished on all sides, this table is designed to stand freely in the center of a room, making it ideal for a spacious home office or library. It comes complete with working locks and keys.

Next we have this beautiful antique pair of Gonçalo Alves and kingwood side cabinets, circa 1880.

Each cabinet features a central cupboard with a door opening to a single interior shelf. The incurvate sides are framed with ormolu ribbon-bound reed beading, adding a touch of refined opulence.

These truly stunning cabinets encapsulate the excitement of the timeless Gonçalo Alves pattern. They are raised on elegant square tapering legs and come with working locks and keys.

Finally we would like to bring your attention to this beautiful antique George IV Gonçalo Alves and amboyna marquetry tea caddy, circa 1825.

It is beautifully decorated with superb marquetry decoration on the Gonçalo Alves and amboyna.

It is in the form of a sarcophagus, with the lid enclosing an arrangement of two superbly decorated removable lidded canisters for the tea and a cut glass mixing bowl. 

Raised on decorative lion’s paw feet, the caddy is complete with its original lock and key. Its striking design and expert craftsmanship make it a standout piece sure to command attention in any setting.

Whether you’re drawn to the bold grain, rich hues, or historic charm of Gonçalo Alves, each of these antiques represents a timeless investment in craftsmanship and natural beauty. This remarkable wood brings history and artistry together in pieces that are as enduring as they are beautiful.

Our antiques experts are always available to help with any queries that you may have about available pieces of furniture. Just give us a call at +44 20 8809 9605 or send an email to info@regentantiques.com.

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