Monumental Extra Large Antique Victorian Satinwood Marquetry Ormolu & Porcelain Display Cabinet Credenza
Description
An exceptional and unusually large antique Victorian satinwood marquetry, ormolu mounted and porcelain inset credenza or sideboard of magnificent proportions and outstanding cabinetmaking quality.
Measuring an impressive 252 cm (8 ft 3 in) in width, this remarkable statement piece is considerably larger than the majority of credenzas of the period and was clearly conceived for an important interior. The scale, quality of materials and extraordinary level of decorative detail make it a particularly striking example.
The beautifully figured satinwood shaped top is richly decorated with contrasting marquetry and crossbanding, above an ormolu mounted frieze with finely cast classical ornament.
The central section is fitted with a pair of glazed doors opening to reveal a mirrored interior with fitted shelves edged in ormolu, creating an elegant display area for porcelain, glass or silver.
To either side are beautifully inlaid cupboard doors decorated with delicate ribbon and bow marquetry and centred by superb oval hand-painted porcelain plaques depicting colourful floral bouquets. The porcelain panels are framed by finely cast ormolu mounts and provide a wonderful contrast against the warm satinwood and darker inlaid decoration.
Perhaps the most unusual feature is the pair of open rounded display ends. Each incorporates three beautifully patterned parquetry shelves with mirrored backs, supported by finely turned satinwood columns enriched with ormolu mounts. These open ends give the piece an exceptionally architectural quality while allowing decorative objects to be displayed from several angles.
Further ormolu mouldings and mounts run throughout the piece, including the frieze, door surrounds and shaped plinth, unifying the elaborate design.
The overall quality, unusually ambitious proportions and sophisticated combination of satinwood, marquetry, ormolu, mirrors and hand-painted porcelain indicate that this was an important bespoke or showcase commission by a leading cabinetmaker of the period.
A magnificent and highly decorative piece of Victorian cabinet furniture, ideally suited to a substantial dining room, drawing room, entrance hall or grand contemporary interior where its extraordinary scale can be fully appreciated.
Condition report:
In beautiful original untouched condition with desirable age-related wear and marks consistent with its age and use. The piece retains a wonderful colour and patination. Please study the photographs carefully as they form part of the condition report.
Dimensions:
Height: 92 cm (36.22 in)
Width: 252 cm (99.21 in)
Depth: 48.5 cm (19.09 in)
Date: c.1850
Origin: English
Available for UK and international shipping.