A Rare Apprentice Miniature Dutch Marquetry Cabinet Piece C1800

A Rare Miniature Dutch Bombe Marquetry Cabinet c1800 in walnut with key. This piece usually classified as an 'Apprentice Piece' or cabinet makers sample. An apprentice piece of furniture is a miniature, scaled-down version of a full-sized piece of furniture, typically createdin 18th or 19th century to demonstrate and to show their carpentry and joinery skills. These pieces, which could range from chests of drawers to chairs and tables, were used to prove their abilities to a master craftsman for either guild admission or job prospects. This piece is currently in store in Haywards Heath,

These pieces are highly collectible due to their rarity and the incredible detail they showcase, sometimes making them even more valuable than the full-sized equivalent.

Marquetry is derived from the French word marquetery, translating as ‘to variegate’. It is connected with the appearance of something enhanced by the use of different shades to create a contrast effect. Marquetry involves the use of a variety of different woods to create this contrast, will also play a role as the nature and value of the piece dictates. A range of techniques are used in the creation of marquetry. The marqueteur first chooses the woods to be used. These will be extremely thing wood veneers, almost like paper. These are ten arranged to create the desired contrast effect. The design is traced out or stuck onto the different pieces of wood veneer, then cut. It is a very delicate process as with such thin veneers, a great deal of care must be taken. Marquetry compositions are incredibly fragile, so they are attached to a wooden panel or a piece of furniture for stability. The composition is then varnished to protect it and also to accentuate the individual colours and really bring them out against each other.

We are primarily a web based business showing high quality antiques and decorative items in two warehouses in Lambourn Woodlands, Berkshire and Tetbury , Gloucestershire . Within easy reach of M4 Junctions and with a mainline station nearby and good private car parking facilities at all venues. We display the widest variety of antiques at all price levels, including paintings, furniture, fireside pieces and other decorative interior items. Not all our items are at any particular place so please call or email (enquiries@marlboroughantiques.com) or from our Contact page to avoid disappointment. Please view our Terms and conditions if needed at http://www.marlboroughantiques.com/terms.php.

We are very happy to discuss with clients their needs and to provide a sourcing service. We can advise on the acquisition of pieces in all areas of the fine and decorative arts, assisting clients in their search for individual pieces or for a particular item. If you have queries regarding this or any intended purchase please contact us. All items can be delivered either by postal service or by trusted and fully insured couriers; we use both for the UK market and for overseas delivery. Please inquire by email or phone to obtain a quote for delivery options. Items are described as Excellent - A1 Condition no faults, Very Good - very good condition with only very minor cosmetic issues if atall and consistent with age, Good - in good overall condition with some ageing, marks and wear consistent with age.