Corner With A Crossbow-shaped Front

A corner cabinet veneered in violet wood with a decorative band forming wide reserves adorned with quatrefoils. It opens with two doors revealing a compartment with three curved shelves. It has cabriole legs and a "breccia violet" marble top with a corbin beak edge. The frame is dovetailed. Parisian work, circa 1730. Height: 91 cm / Width: 71 cm. (To be restored / bronze mounts added later) The term "encoinure" (corner cabinet) literally refers to the angle formed by the meeting of two walls. Since the 16th century, architects and decorators have demonstrated ingenuity in decorating these spaces. These corners were initially fitted with rounded wainscoting or shelves, then with more substantial pieces. Corner cabinets appeared and were very fashionable throughout the 18th century. Practical and well-suited, they are frequently described in inventories and books of mercers. They come in various sizes and feature diverse decorations in wood veneer and marquetry, lacquer or varnish, marble tops, and chiseled and gilded bronze ornaments as varied as those adorning the chests of drawers or other furniture they may match. The one we are presenting, in the very distinctive style of the Regency period, perfectly represents the diversity and originality of the models created… (this piece comes from a family in the Pau region)