Grandiose Napoleon III piece of furniture inlaid with marble and bronze.

Grandiose Napoleon III support furniture, made of fruitwood veneer, richly inlaid and adorned with gilded bronzes and marble (late 19th century). Sumptuous piece with beautiful proportions and an explosive original patina that majestically stands out thanks to its skillfully shaped white marble, gilded bronzes, and incredible marquetry work. The main door is decorated with musical instruments, crafted in contrasting wood marquetry. The result, featuring a flute, a drum, a score, etc., is as beautiful as the surrounding decor: acanthus leaves, red flowers, or thistles entwined around the border at the crossed corners... One can spend long minutes admiring it. Two detached columns frame the door, molded, adorned with gilded bronze stems, and encircled with bronze at mid-height. The tops of the columns resemble ancient columns. On each side of the door, flat areas surrounded by chased bronze with a vegetal design. Above, a horizontal dreamlike fresco depicting sorts of plant-like birds. Above the columns, the rounded corners are also inlaid with diamond and leaf patterns. The marble reigns supreme over the whole piece, sovereign and luminous. The door is mounted on the "outside" of the furniture, and the period lock, perfectly functional with its original key, closes vertically. Inside, two shelves in gleaming veneer offer ample storage space, providing a sense of comfort and luxury. Indeed, these pieces were exceptional even in their time... This one is, moreover, in remarkable condition. The gilding on some strips has faded, the columns rotate on themselves (without affecting the stability of the piece), there are very rare signs of wear here and there and pale marks on the marble... But it is complete with its bronzes, marquetry, perfectly stable and solid. L: 108 cm. D: 45 cm. H: 117 cm. The price is firm.