Coiffeuse - Wood

Dresser / Coiffeuse, wood marquetry and ormolu, Napoleon III, 19th century – France

Style: Napoleon III
Materials: Marquetry of precious woods and ormolu (gilded bronze)
Period: Late 19th century
Country of origin: France
Good condition relative to age and use
Dimensions: 71 x 56 x 40 cm.

Impressive and singular French dresser or coiffeuse, in the Napoleon III style and period, 19th century. In precious woods, rosewood and bloodwood, it features a sinuous profile, and the top surface presents exquisite marquetry with the renowned French Treillage pattern, repeated on the front and sides.

Mounting and hardware in mercury-gilded bronze, ormolu. The entire piece is framed with an ormolu profile, with an ornamental olive branch motif. It rests on four sabre legs with fittings and sablots also in gilded bronze ornamented with vegetal motifs. The lock escutcheon, also gilded bronze, showcases a beautiful ornamentation with small shamrocks of extraordinary craftsmanship. With key. The interior of the dresser is lined with rosewood and features a mirror with a gilded bronze mount. A discreet alcove is found at the bottom.

A piece of magnificent quality and a high level of refinement. Ideal as an auxiliary piece of furniture in any space and setting, it will always stand out for its beauty and elegance.

Napoleon III or Second Empire style and period

The Napoleon III style, or Second Empire, derives its name from its origins in France at that time. Strictly, the Second Empire was proclaimed in 1852 and ended in 1870, led by Louis-Napoleon Bonaparte as Emperor of the French, although in the artistic sense it extends a few years more (to 1880). This style was very popular among the French bourgeoisie. The Emperor himself was involved in the artistic development of the period, though more linked to architecture. However, it is to Empress Eugénie that the evolution of the decorative arts is owed.

Although inspired by past styles, beginning with Classical Antiquity, the Renaissance, even in Louis XVI, much loved by Eugénie, the most representative feature of the style is its sumptuousness and ostentation, always aiming to display wealth and opulence.

It is not a style designed specifically for the Second Empire, but a revival of the different great French styles from previous centuries, a kind of compendium of French decorative trends. Special reference is made to Louis XIV, Louis XV, Baroque and Rococo, and gradually Louis XVI, with an eclectic base. Ultimately, the decorative styles that positioned France at the forefront of interior design and furniture design in Europe, both for quality and originality and beauty.

Shipping of the product will be paid by the buyer according to its dimensions, weight, and destination. We will contact you to arrange it and agree on the budget. Shipping costs include professional custom packaging; and personalized shipping, with tracking number and warranty. DUE TO THE PIECE'S DIMENSIONS, IT IS PREFERRED TO ARRANGE SHIPPING WITH THE BUYER. CURRENT COSTS ARE ESTIMATED.

The buyer will be responsible for paying import duties and related taxes in the destination country, if any. Please note the seller's liability disclaimer regarding possible customs charges, as they are charged in the destination country and the amount payable is determined by that country’s customs. If an export permit is required, the costs are borne by the buyer. The cost depends progressively on the value of the artwork to be exported.