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RARISSIMO Miniature Chest of Drawers Galerie Vivienne Paris with original label Guillard & Lemaire / Rémond Succession – Mahogany and marble – France, 19th century

Extraordinary and very rare French miniature chest of the second half of the 19th century, an authentic testimony of the elegance and taste of 19th-century Paris. This is an exceptionally interesting historical and collectible piece, enhanced by the presence of its own original commercial label still perfectly preserved on the back, a very rare element that documents precisely its provenance and history.

Crafted in precious mahogany with a white veined marble top, the piece features a three-drawer structure of superior build quality, beautiful natural grain, turnery knobs of the period, and perfectly functioning original locks. The key is not present.

The object retains on the back the original paper label bearing the inscription:

"Les plus grands Magasins de Jouets de Paris – A la Galerie Vivienne – Mons. Guillard & Lemaire – Rémond Successeur – Rue des Petits Champs, 4"

This label constitutes a true historical identity card for the object and allows it to be traced to one of the most prestigious toy and luxury goods shops in 19th-century Paris.

The famous Galerie Vivienne, opened in 1823 and still regarded today as one of the most elegant arcades in Paris, represented a reference point for the European upper middle class and aristocracy. In this exclusive context Guillard & Lemaire operated, later taken over by Rémond, merchants specializing in dolls, toys, and miniaturized furnishings destined for the era’s most refined clientele.

The generous dimensions for the category, combined with the quality of materials and the extremely rare original label, distinguish this specimen from most French miniaturized furniture that has reached us. Similar items were used to furnish the finest French dolls of the period or as refined examples of micro-joinery intended for the wealthiest homes.

Observing this piece, it’s hard not to imagine the elegant shop windows of Galerie Vivienne in Second Empire Paris, lit by large glass coverings and frequented by an international clientele seeking the most refined creations. The rare label surviving the passage of time still allows a direct link to that now-vanished world.

More than a simple miniature piece, this example represents a rare testimony to the material culture and taste of French high society in the 19th century. A small Parisian treasure that has crossed about a century and a half of history, preserving its charm, authenticity, and its connection to one of Paris’s most iconic places.

Our interior designer recommends: this rare French miniature finds its ideal placement within professional studios, libraries, cabinets de curiosités, classical residences, and ecletic environments where it can be appreciated not only as a decorative object but as an authentic testament to European collecting culture of the 19th century. The presence of the original Galerie Vivienne label also makes it a highly fascinating conversation piece for collectors, lovers of French history, and admirers of objects with documented provenance.

Dimensions: 42.5 cm long, 21.5 cm deep, and 32.5 cm high.

Very good condition. The piece retains the original marble top, period knobs, functioning locks, and the rare original historical label. The key is not present. There are slight and natural signs of aging compatible with its history and use. The label shows natural aging marks that confirm its authenticity and historical significance.

Photos are an integral part of the description. Guaranteed careful packing entrusted to industry professionals.