Lacquered And Gilded Corner Cabinet From The Louis XV Period, Mid-18th Century

A large and impressive lacquered and gilded corner cabinet from the Louis XV period, dating from the mid-18th century and originating from Sicily. Its design draws on the Baroque style of the Louis XV period, known for its sinuous, asymmetrical, and opulent lines. The front panel is embellished with a striking and elaborate frame of carved and gilded wood, decorated with classical motifs of the era. The upper portion features rich “rocaille” shell-shaped carvings surrounded by foliage and scroll motifs. The two side posts feature two undulating, sculpted profiles; the upper section depicts the faces of two griffins, rendered with proud and distinctly three-dimensional features—expressive, wide-open eyes and a pronounced beak that curves slightly downward— with upper plumage that gradually blends into the structure of the upright, which, descending along its entire height, ends with volutes and acanthus leaves. At the bottom is a large, intricately carved and gilded band featuring volutes and scrolls, with a shell at its center. Finally, on the front, the corner cabinet is supported by two “cabriolé”-style legs, both intricately carved and gilded, with the lower ends of the legs terminating in claw-like tips clutching a sphere—a characteristic feature of 18th-century cabinetmaking. The front features a large single-pane glass door that follows the shape of the frame, while inside there are two shelves, which, together with the base of the corner cabinet, create three spacious display compartments. The top of the cabinet is finished with its original white marble, carved on the front with an owl’s beak motif and shaped to follow the cabinet’s silhouette. The corner cabinet has been restored and reupholstered, preserving its original period patina; we would like to emphasize that the gilding has not been touched except for a few minor chips, “but given the period, it is normal for there to be some very minor imperfections,” so we can say that the gilding is entirely original to the period and is in fantastic condition. Of particular note is the great elegance of this corner cabinet, which makes it a unique and highly significant piece; with its brilliant luster, it is ready to beautify and enhance any type of setting, whether classic or modern.

PERIOD Louis XV, mid-18th century

DIMENSIONSH. 131 cm x D. 69 x 69 cm

CONDITION Excellent condition—“restored and reupholstered”—