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Pair of antique hardstone and ormolu mounted cabinets by Béfort Jeune

Creator: Mathieu Béfort Jeune
Offered by: Mayfair Gallery

Description
Pair of antique hardstone and ormolu mounted cabinets by Béfort Jeune
French, Late 19th Century
Height 151cm, width 112cm, depth 52cm

This outstanding pair of cabinets was crafted by Mathieu Béfort (1813-1880), also known as Béfort Jeune. He was a well-known French cabinetmaker, his father Jean-Baptiste Béfort (1783-1840) crafting pieces for French royalty.

The cabinets are crowned with stunning red marble tops, accented by a delicate Sienna marble edge—a rare feature that highlights their superior craftsmanship. Beneath is an intricate gilt bronze reel-and-bead frieze paired with a larger acanthus leaf frieze. The upper rectangular black marble panel showcases vibrant pietra dura inlays, depicting ribbon-tied branches of cherries and pears, framed by a gilt bronze ormolu border. A discreet button opens a hidden drawer in the upper part of the cabinets. Smaller side panels mirror the intricate hardstone work and gilt bronze busts embellish the upright supports.

The central doors feature black marble panels set into rich ebonised wood, lavishly adorned with polychrome hardstone inlays inspired by nature. A central cherry tree with a bird perched among its branches is the focal point, surrounded by ribbon-tied fruit branches and delicate butterflies. Ornate gilt bronze borders and inlaid brass bands further elevate the detailed design. The lockable door reveals a spacious interior with a single shelf.

The sides of the antiques are equally adorned with elaborate gilt bronze mounts, featuring larger rectangular panels depicting cherubs holding symbols of various hobbies including a painter’s palette symbolic of art. The bottom frieze is richly decorated with a gilt bronze bust, framed by acanthus-inspired elements and more detailed mounts on the pilasters, all bordered by inlaid brass banding. The cabinets rest on four ebonised wood feet with gilt bronze accents.

The reverse of the gilt bronze mounts is stamped ‘BEF’.

This remarkable pair of cabinets embodies Mathieu Béfort's unparalleled skill and would be a wonderful addition to any refined interior.

Artist/Maker: Mathieu Béfort

More Information

Documentation:	Signed
Origin:	France
Period:	19th Century
Materials:	Brass, ebonised wood, hardstone, marble, ormolu, pietra dura.
Creation Date:	Late 19th Century
Styles / Movements:	Traditional
Dealer Reference #:	17544
Incollect Reference #:	756725

Dimensions

W.	44.09 in;	H.	59.45 in;	D.	20.47 in;
W.	112 cm;	H.	151 cm;	D.	52 cm;

Message from Seller:

Mayfair Gallery is a leading gallery in the field of art and antiques, holding a large collection of unique pieces for sale. The breadth of the gallery’s collection is wide, and includes items from a range of periods, styles and geographical origins, as well as works by famous artists and craftsmen. The main focus of the gallery’s collection is, however, on items produced during the 19th and early 20th century.