Magnificent Napoleon III sideboard from the GRIARD House (circa 1890)

Magnificent Napoleon III sideboard in solid walnut (or light mahogany), stamped MAISON GIRARD. The stamp specifies: Complete furniture / Mirrors & Seats... And was located at No. 7 of an unreadable street. There is no documentation on this cabinetmaker, but this piece, dating from the Napoleon III era, is of very fine quality. At the bottom, the furniture opens with two drawers adorned with original gilded bronze handles and a superb lock entry. Each facade is surrounded by moulded strips. The lock is ingenious; it opens and closes both drawers simultaneously with its original key, but in a lateral manner! The bolts enter the sides of the drawers (see photo). The two-point lock of the buffet section has been replaced by an old lock with a key, which works perfectly. The left door clips under the shelf, and the right one secures everything with the lock. The rounded strips on the facades echo those of the glazed doors above and are equipped with their lock entry. The very beautiful lower plinth and moulded feet are noteworthy. The upper section opens with two glass doors made of blown glass! Indeed, when viewed from an angle, one can see very slight "waves" characteristic of the glass and even, on the right, two or three tiny trapped air bubbles... The effect is magical. The original two-point brass lock also works with its key (the same as that of the drawers). Inside, there are 3 shelves mounted on adjustable brackets. The finishes are notable, with the edges in blackened wood recalling the upper edges of the lower section. The original patina is grand, and the overall effect is sumptuous. There are some usual signs of wear, a few minor repairs or missing parts. There was apparently a decorative upper section, but these are often removed to modernise such furniture. It has been in the same family for 5 generations and is in excellent condition.