Very large ormolu and glass mounted malachite display cabinet

Very large ormolu and glass mounted malachite display cabinet
French, 20th Century
Height 250cm, width 368cm, depth 76cm
 
An exceptional statement piece, this grand display cabinet combines luxurious malachite with finely detailed ormolu (gilt bronze) mounts, exemplifying the refinement of 19th century Neoclassical design.
 
The vitrine is arranged in two tiers. The lower portion, deeper yet shorter in height, contains a single glass shelf, while the upper, taller section is shallower and more fitted with two shelves. Together, they create four perfectly symmetrical bays, with each side mirroring the other in harmonious balance
 
The beauty of the richly veined malachite is accentuated by an array of classical gilt-bronze details. Each glass panel is framed with delicate ormolu beading, while the eight doors are secured by four locks adorned with decorative escutcheons. At the base of the lower tier runs a scrolling foliate frieze, with an arabesque-inspired band positioned above. Architectural strength is emphasized by three vertical pillars - one central and one at either end - each decorated with swags and beaded ornamentation in gilt bronze.
 
The upper tier amplifies this decorative scheme with even greater splendour. Below the entablature, a richly worked ormolu frieze displays laurel garlands and medallions in classical profile, while the robust cornice above is supported by three elegant scrolling brackets. A bold ormolu crest crowns the cabinet, unifying the design and enhancing its grandeur.
 
Perfectly suited to displaying antiques, objets d’art, or private collections, this luxurious display cabinet not only protects its contents but elevates them, ensuring they are presented to their finest advantage.