H: 49.5 in / 125 cm | W: 37.5 in / 95 cm | D: 16 in / 40 cm
Description
A Neo-Classical Side Cabinet
Constructed from choice amboyna veneers and of solid mahogany construction, the cabinet of gentle breakfront form rising from oblate bun feet and dressed with ormolu mounts and stiff leaf moulding throughout; the central door enclosing a shelved interior and inset with a Wedgewood jasperware plaque of Erato—the Muse of love poetry—below a gilt bronze tied laurel swag complemented by a profusion of ebony marquetry inlay in the manner of Michelangelo Pergolesi. The top of conforming shape having an ebonised edge and surmounted with a shaped rising panel of parcel gilt and specimen wood inlays.
Circa 1880
The liberal use of classical motifs in the ornament and decoration of this cabinet are features of the neo-classical movement popularised by Robert Adam at the end of the eighteenth century. Inspired by the classical world, this cabinet features fluted columns, festoons, swags, guilloches, and inlays inspired by Greek pottery in the Etruscan style. Like Robert Adam, who preferred exotic light-coloured woods for his furniture, this cabinet employs expensive amboyna timber and is ornamented with bronze mounts.
REF No. 9409
