Bellows In Boulle Marquetry Of Red Tortoiseshell

Elegant and highly ornamental Louis XIV period bellows in Boulle marquetry, red tortoiseshell veneer and finely chiseled brass with scrollwork, stylized foliage, flowers, and symmetrical scrolls. The exquisite decoration evokes fine work from the very beginning of the 18th century.

The bellows ends with a brass spout with several rings. The central section is made of original leather. The back is engraved with a stylized pattern of symmetrical curves. The highly ornamental handle is fastened with a leather strap.

The object, which was utilitarian for its time, remains a beautiful work of art to this day.

Boulle marquetry, highly valued in the 17th and 18th centuries under Louis XIV, was used by high society to enhance all kinds of objects, from bookcases to boxes, for the most commonplace items, but also books and objects such as bellows. One of the most beautiful objects in Boulle marquetry is undoubtedly the illuminated manuscript offered to Louis XIV, the cover of which is a timeless work of art.

Attributed to André-Charles Boulle, binding of an illuminated manuscript containing a History of Louis the Great, contained in the relationships between his actions and the qualities and virtues of the plants offered to the king by Jean Donneau de Visé, tortoiseshell, pewter, and brass, 54.5 x 39 cm. Paris, 1688.

Bnf, Department of Manuscripts / CREOD, © BNF

Here, the bellows, non-functional, remains a ceremonial object of the most beautiful effect.

Work from the early 18th century

Restoration for use and maintenance

Dimensions: H 6 cm x W 42 cm x D 15 cm