Pair of 19th century hardstone, ormolu and ebonised wood pedestal cabinets

Pair of 19th century hardstone, ormolu and ebonised wood pedestal cabinets
French, 19th Century
Height 138cm, width 64cm, depth 43cm
 
Originating from the artistic milieu of 19th century France, this pair of pedestal cabinets showcase the era's exquisite craftsmanship. Crafted from ebonised wood, enriched with gilt-bronze accents and vibrant hardstone, they are a spectacle of intricate design.
 
The pedestals’ surfaces predominantly feature an inlay of detailed brass, adding a striking contrast to the dark wood. Each secure door is adorned with a polychromatic hardstone display. They present a captivating scene of fruits and flowers, uniquely inverted, bound together by a marigold-hued ribbon. This ensemble, featuring cherries in hues of red, green, and maroon along with delicate lily of the valley blossoms, adds a natural charm to the ebonised door. A gilt bronze border frames this hardstone medley, amplifying its visual appeal.
 
Adding to the pair’s opulence, the front panel of each pedestal cabinet is flanked by stunning ormolu female figures. Intricate feather headdresses grace their heads while their bodies bear elaborate s-scroll and acanthus leaf decorations. Radiant ormolu mounts adorn various sections of these cabinets and accentuate the ebonised wood's dark allure.
 
A crowning glory to these pedestal cabinets is their white marble tops, each framed elegantly with another ormolu border. This arrangement offers a magnificent stage for displaying precious artefacts of many sorts, ensuring their prominence. Each one of the pair is supported by four robust bracket feet.
 
Blending various cabinetmaking techniques and decorative styles this pair of pedestal cabinets is a statement of timeless opulence and fine craftsmanship.