Mahogany bookcase mid 19th century

Exceptional and important Empire style bookcase in solid mahogany and mahogany veneer.

France mid 19th century, in the taste of Pierre-Antoine Bellangé.

Dimensions : H : 276.5 x W : 596 x D : 85 cm (108 ?/? x 234 ?/? x 33 ¹/? inches)

The upper part consists of four bays with shelves framed by rounded mahogany veneer niches. The niches as well as the bays are flanked on both sides by sheathed caryatids depicting women's heads adorned with gilded and chased bronze wings. The interior of the niches is curved and topped with an upside down shell motif. At the base of the niches is a semi-circular marble shelf (Brocatelle d'Espagne) that can hold sculptures or other ornaments. The lower part is composed of doors and leaves as well as a row of 6 small drawers in the extension of the niches. On either side of these drawers, sculpted winged lions seem to protect their contents. The whole piece of furniture stands on feet decorated with lions' paws. The gilded bronzes, vases, flowers, rosettes, caduceus etc. are very finely chiselled. These bronze elements, the finesse of the wood carving and the assembly reveal the exceptional quality of execution of this piece of furniture. The style and quality of this piece of furniture can be compared to the aesthetics of Pierre-Antoine Bellangé, cabinetmaker of the Imperial court of Napoleon I.

Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)