Mother of pearl inlaid ebonised cabinet

Mother of Pearl Inlaid Ebonised Cabinet

An exceptional example of Second Empire opulence, this Mother of Pearl Inlaid Ebonised Cabinet epitomises the artistry and grandeur of the Napoleon III period. Its refined aesthetic seamlessly marries French craftsmanship with the lavish detail characteristic of the era’s finest cabinet furniture.

Origin: France
Date: Circa 1860
Material: Ebonised wood, brass marquetry, mother of pearl, gilt bronze, Carrara marble

Dimensions: Height: 110 cm; Width: 120 cm; Depth: 45 cm

Condition: Excellent condition throughout; outstanding original patina to the ebonised surfaces; minor age consistent wear.

Embodying the height of 19th-century French artistic achievement, this cabinet draws stylistic parallels to the celebrated works held in the Musée d’Orsay and the Wallace Collection. The rich ebonised finish and exquisite inlays are testament to the skilled ébénistes of the period. Its distinctive Napoleon III flair—marked by finely chased gilt bronze mounts and a striking Carrara marble top—places it firmly within the decorative traditions that influenced the homes of Parisian aristocracy.

Notable Features:

• Superb brass and mother of pearl marquetry, meticulously hand-cut for intricate visual effects.
• Bold gilt bronze mounts, including columns adorned with bronze lion mask capitals.
• Distinctive white Carrara marble top imparting both elegance and practicality.
• Retains its original lock and key, enhancing authenticity and collecting appeal.

The design of this cabinet exudes symmetry and confident lines, reflecting the grandeur and formal balance sought during the Second Empire. The decorative columns and lustrous inlays recall acclaimed works by notable French makers such as Charles-Guillaume Diehl, celebrated for their elaborate craftsmanship.

Collectors will appreciate its rarity, outstanding marquetry, and distinguished provenance as a top-tier example of ebonised buffet cabinet furniture. Desirable for its scale and form, it is ideally suited for display in a refined interior, anchoring a grand dining room or reception space, or as the highlight of a specialist collection.

This Mother of Pearl Inlaid Ebonised Cabinet offers both artistic and practical value, combining distinguished period design with genuine utility. Its enduring beauty ensures it remains as compelling in a modern home as it was in the salons of 19th-century France.