Object Description
Two Antique Ebonised Wood and Ormolu Cabinets with Hardstone Pietra Dura Inlay
French, late 19th Century
Dimensions: Height 112cm, width 135cm, depth 43cm
This fine pair of cabinets are designed in an eclectic late 19th Century French style, combining facets of inspiration from the Renaissance and Neoclassical. The bodies of the cabinets are crafted from ebonised wood, which has been mounted with ormolu decorations and inlaid with multicoloured polychrome hardstones.
Each cabinet in this pair is traditionally shaped, with a straight front, concave curved sides, and a flat marble plateau on the top. The ornate ormolu mounts cover the surface of the cabinets profusely, and include motifs such as a frieze of anthemia to the top, scrolling foliate detailing throughout, floral bouquets and sprays, and bows. The central lockable door of each cabinet is adorned with a pietra dura design of inlaid hardstones in the shape of various flowers. These are surrounded by further ormolu frames.
The central doors open to reveal fours shelves in each cabinet.