Three-tier Brass And Eglomise Glass Shelf By Maison Jansen. Circa 1940

This elegant freestanding shelf is a characteristic example of mid-20th-century high-end Parisian occasional furniture. The structural design relies on four solid brass uprights detailed with fine fluting. These shafts terminate at the base in tapered feet and are crowned at the top with pinecone finials. The rigidity of the frame is ensured on the lateral and rear faces by X-shaped cross-stretchers, secured at their centers by small rosettes. The piece features three rectangular tiers holding eglomise glass plates. These display a rich mottled pattern in brown and ochre tones, finely imitating tortoiseshell or precious burl wood.

The combination of the neoclassical brass structure (cross-stretchers, fluting) and the eglomise glass  are typical of Maison Jansen work. Founded in Paris in 1880, Maison Jansen remained the absolute benchmark for international interior decoration for nearly a century. Under the direction of Stéphane Boudin, the house specialized in reinterpreting Directoire and Empire styles, designing highly refined "mobilier volant" (small tables, shelves, serving carts) for a prestigious clientele, including embassies and high aristocracy

Standing 87 cm tall, this piece is in good overall condition. The brass displays a natural and even patina of use, while the three original eglomise glass plates remain intact. Both an architectural and functional piece, it will naturally serve as an end table, a small display shelf, or an elegant stand in a demanding interior.