Antique French ormolu mounted drinks cabinet attributed to François Linke

Antique French ormolu mounted drinks cabinet attributed to François Linke
French, Late 19th Century
Height 81cm, width 84cm, depth 48cm
 
Crafted in the late 19th century, this superb drinks table is attributed to François Linke (1855-1946). He was the leading French ébéniste of the Belle Epoque period designing ingenious furniture pieces such as the one in Mayfair Gallery’s collection.
 
The table is topped by a removable glass tray on which one can serve drinks. The glass pane is mounted with ormolu edging and two acanthus-shaped handles. Below is a stunning tabletop filled with elegant parquetry and marquetry designs. The composition is repeated on the four sides of the piece creating a very cohesive design. The side panels are decorated with various ormolu mounts such as handles and escutcheons. Once unlocked, all four drop down to reveal the inside of the cabinet, simultaneously providing a larger surface for the display or serving of drinks. The inside panels are crafted with brass and wood marquetry, framed in ormolu, and protected by glass.
 
The four cabriole legs that support the furniture piece are joined by prominent friezes mounted with ormolu features. The scrolled feet terminate with ormolu sabots.
 
Showcasing some of the best 19th century cabinet making, this drinks table would be a superb addition to both traditional and contemporary spaces.