Napoleon III Liquor Cellar With Inlaid Decoration Of Floral Garlands, Circa 1870

A model that is both classic and elegant, this Liqueur Cellar of sober rectangular shape, adorned with ebonized wood frames set with rosewood strips, a shimmering Thuya burl veneer, is illuminated on its upper plate and front with a delicate marquetry decoration with re-engraved brass and mother-of-pearl inlays in Louis XVI finery. Accented with acanthus fleuron motifs centered with quadrilobed florets, a meandering braid festooned with undulating floral garlands highlights slightly scalloped central cartouches with a rosette of leafy acanthus palmettes. The key turned, its flap reveals an interior covered in a Mahogany burl veneer which serves as a setting for a removable liqueur display with a gilt bronze rack, beautifully chiseled on its handle, its shelves of stylized acanthus scrolls. This one accommodates a crystal service composed of four carafes and sixteen small stemmed glasses matching the curved bodies and lines enhanced by an airy scattering of dots.
Raised on four turned legs, this Liqueur Cellar with its discreet sophistication constitutes a very appreciable example of these "ingenious and luxurious hand-held furniture" born under the Second Empire by the Cabinetmakers-Tablettiers of the second half of the 19th century, much to the dismay of a clientele keen on recreational moments. Balance, shimmering color, a Louis XVI touch of marquetry, and light crystal work distinguish this Liqueur Cellar, which will enhance any interior with its flattering presence.
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Materials: Thuya burl wood, rosewood, ebonized wood, and mahogany burl; brass, mother-of-pearl; crystal.
Dimensions: Closed case: H.: 27 cm; W.: 36 cm; D.: 24 cm. Glassware: Decanter: H.: 20 cm; Stemmed glass: H.: 6 cm.
Fine Parisian Louis XVI style tableware from the second half of the 19th century. Napoleon III period, circa 1870.
Beautiful condition. Complete crystalware. With key. Functional lock.