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Exquisite French Louis XV Ormolu Mounted Kingwood Vitrine Cabinet c. 1880

Offered by: Silla, ltd.

Description
A work of simply outstanding quality and craftsmanship, this gorgeous vitrine is of the Belle Epoque period circa the last quarter of the 19th century, clearly executed by a highly talented hand. The kingwood veneers are of the finest quality under crisp gilt bronze mounts that naturalistically flow across the case in an unending embellishment of every edge and framing of every panel. Thin and finely chased scrolls of foliage furl chaotically, the strong Rococo motifs of C-scrolls and rocaille embellishments representing throughout; the focal point of the apron is mounted with a violin over scrolls of music in the highly asymmetrical curvature of the apron. The door opens on original hinges to reveal a large display area with two conforming glass shelves, the door locking with it’s original key and lock. The secondary aspects of the case are crafted of oak, the shoulder joints and the top locked together with large dovetails, the back of the case revealing the tidy construction of panels set in grooved framing.

This is a powerful statement piece, the bulge of the base over the cabriole legs almost muscular in it’s stance; it is an angular and most refined work, the careful design lending a sense of weightlessness to this highly impressive piece. For the serious collector of the very finest of French furnishings, this is an outstanding acquisition.

Condition Report:
Old and probably original finish: dry, crackled and oxidized. Chip to edge of door above keyhole, veneer losses/replacements around top edge (beneath marble top), other minor veneer losses/cracking. Rear proper left leg with an old repaired crack. Marble top w/ restored crack. Chips to glass shelves in corners.

More Information

Origin:	France
Period:	19th Century
Materials:	Kingwood, gilt bronze, glass
Condition:	Excellent. See condition report
Creation Date:	c. 1880
Styles / Movements:	Belle Epoque, Traditional, Louis XV
Dealer Reference #:	602PQA29E
Incollect Reference #:	257908