Neo-renaissance Display Bookcase In Carved Oak – Maison Meynard, Eugène Frager, 19th Century

A large display bookcase made of molded and richly carved oak, crafted by Maison Meynard, under Eugène Frager, the successor, located at 50 Faubourg Saint-Antoine in Paris, in the late 19th century.

In the Neo-Renaissance style, this monumental bookcase features an elegant three-part architectural composition, with the central, projecting section topped by a large, multi-tiered cornice.

The upper section opens with three large glass doors, providing access to three separate compartments fitted with shelves. The two side doors are characterized by their arched frames, while the central door, which is more imposing, features a molded frame with corners adorned with foliage scrolls.

The façade is punctuated by fluted columns with Corinthian-inspired capitals, richly carved with acanthus leaves and plant motifs. The central piers are decorated with cascading flowers, rosettes, fleurons, and scrollwork.

The central cornice is particularly remarkable for its carved decoration featuring an ornamental vase surrounded by ribbons and foliage, accentuated by a frieze of ovals and geometric latticework motifs.

Beneath the three glass-paned doors are three wide drawers, discreetly integrated into the cabinet’s architectural composition and fitted with ornate metal handles.

The lower section forms a substantial sideboard with four solid doors, adorned with molded panels and relief carvings. The side doors feature compositions of flower-filled baskets, while the two central doors are decorated with wreaths of foliage suspended from ribbons, in the style of classical Renaissance ornamentation.

The piece is embellished with fluted pilasters, denticles, geometric friezes, and architectural moldings, resting on legs carved with foliage motifs.

The four lower doors open to reveal storage spaces equipped with shelves.

The paneled sides and the back panel, assembled from individual panels, attest to a particularly meticulous traditional construction.

The bookcase bears an engraved brass plaque:

“Artistic Cabinetmaking – Maison Meynard – 50 Faubourg St. Antoine – Seating & Draperies.”

It also bears, on the back, the stamp of Maison Meynard, E. Frager, successor, confirming its origin.

Founded in Paris in 1812, Maison Meynard distinguished itself through its artistic cabinetmaking, particularly its Renaissance-style furniture and prestigious pieces. Awarded prizes at major Parisian exhibitions, it notably won a gold medal at the 1878 World’s Fair.

In 1889, Léon-Guillaume Meynard sold the company to Eugène Frager, who continued operations under the name Maison Meynard, Frager successor.

This bookcase is a fine example of the historicist style of late 19th-century Parisian cabinetmaking, notable for its proportions, the delicacy of its carvings, and the richness of its architectural details.

It is part of a matching study set that also includes a flat desk and its chair, as well as a side table with a marble top, all bearing the marks of the same manufacturer and offered for sale separately.

Period: late 19th century, circa 1890–1905.

Origin: Paris, Maison Meynard, succeeded by Eugène Frager.

Condition: appears to be in good overall condition. Beautiful oak patina, well-preserved carvings, and decorative hardware. Signs of wear consistent with its age.

Delivery is complicated due to the size of this piece; I would prefer to deliver it to you in person—please contact me for a quote. For international buyers, I am available to coordinate with your shipping carrier.

The height can be reduced by 6.5 cm by removing the topmost cornice molding above the central section, bringing it down to 247 cm and making it suitable for modern interiors.