Object Description
A Louis XV style gilt-bronze mounted Vernis Martin and parquetry vitrine
French, c.1880
Height 197cm, width 102cm, depth 49cm
This remarkable work is a Louis XV style, Vernis Martin, parquetry, and gilt-bronze vitrine, made towards the end of the nineteenth century. It is of curved, bombe form, with a central Vernis Martin and glazed panel, in front of a hinger door, behind which the interior shelves are lined with a green fabric that complements the rich veneer of the outer wooden panels. It stands at most of two metres tall: an impressive and grand piece, crafted for a suitably fine interior space.
The sides are decorated with simple yet effective parquetry panels. Ormolu mounts frame the main outer areas, and the edges of the structure are lined similarly tastefully with gilt-bronze embellishments. An elegant and sophisticated model, this piece is demonstrative of the quality and style of late nineteenth century French furniture making.