Small cabinet. France. 19th century.

Small cabinet. France. XIX century.
In ebony wood, gilded bronze and bluing bronze.
Decorated with enamels and metallic inlays.
Measurements: 60 x 60 x 36 cm.

Cabinet type jeweler-chest of French invoice, partially inspired by Flemish cabinets of the seventeenth century, but with an extreme sumptuousness. The ebony structure is architectural and consists of an entablature with a dome covered in gilded bronze and flanked by a roof of double-sided scrolls. The stepped base is compartmentalized with gilded bronze moldings. Gilded bronze niches with split pediments house patinated bronze sculptures of Greco-Roman inspiration worked in round bulk. Veneras decorate the interior arches. A central plafond represents in bas-relief an emperor who abdicates, which is guessed by the gesture of removing the laurel wreath. Crest motifs make up the skirt. The dark ebony wood is embellished by contrast with turquoise settings and blue enamel, as well as gilded bronze applications. The cabinet is composed of four small drawers on each side.