Lee Hawkins Antiques & Interiors has dated this piece to the 19th Century.
sides, hand-painted Vernis Martin panels, and profuse ormolu
mounts combining to create one of the most characterful forms in
French decorative furniture.
The kingwood veneer is laid in a chevron pattern to the lower
section, with crossbanding throughout. The curved glazed door and
shaped side panels provide excellent visibility to the green
velvet-lined interior, which is fitted with three shaped display
shelves. The interior is generous and practical - well suited to
the display of porcelain, silver, or decorative objects.
The Vernis Martin panels are the focal point of the exterior -
hand-painted romantic pastoral scenes in the 18th century French
manner, depicting figures in landscape settings, framed within
ormolu mount surrounds. Vernis Martin - the celebrated French
lacquer technique developed by the Martin brothers in the early
18th century - was the most prized decorative finish of the Louis
XV period and was applied to the finest furniture of the era.
The ormolu mounts are of good quality throughout - a pierced and
scrolling acanthus cresting crowns the serpentine cornice, with
trailing foliate mounts to the angles, rocaille clasps to the
curved glazed panels, and ormolu sabots to the slender cabriole
legs. The overall effect is one of considerable decorative richness.
The piece presents in good antique condition with honest wear
consistent with age. The green velvet interior lining shows wear
and would benefit from relining - this is reflected in our asking
price. The glazed panels and ormolu mounts are intact throughout. Structurally sound.
An excellent display cabinet for a drawing room, study, or
hallway - equally at home in a period interior or as a statement
piece in a contemporary setting.
Lee Hawkins Antiques & Interiors has dated this piece to the 19th Century.
You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Lee Hawkins Antiques & Interiors Profile Page
19th Century French Kingwood Vitrine Display Cabinet - Vernis Martin Panels, Ormolu Mounts & Curved Glass
