Side table - Marble

Auxiliary chest of drawers in the Louis XV style, Napoleon III, 19th century – France
Exquisite French auxiliary piece unique of its kind. It features materials of excellent quality, inlay work with precious woods and two different types of marble. Although it appears to have a simple structure, this chest holds two secrets. Originating from an important Paris workshop in the mid-19th century.

This small chest is made in the Louis XV style, Napoleonic III era. It presents an impressive marble veneer of Griotte with pearl inlays; it is a marble of Belgian origin, characterized by its intense red color. It rests on a four-faced trim body. On the front, two compartments; one very fine like a belt and another with large capacity. The first is a sliding drawer of rosewood outlined in bronze, with a maple interior, accompanied by an original bronze-gilt lock. This bronze profile extends throughout the entire piece. The second, corresponding to the skirt of the furniture, has a concave movement; it is a drop-front drawer whose interior is lined with white marble. This drawer opens by turning a handle of gilt bronze.

The chest stands on carved legs, all four with sabots. All these fittings are gilded-bronze mercury-treated and then chiseled. Additionally, in the marquetry present throughout its structure, different fruitwood veneers are used, providing a rich variety of tones where light and dark woods contrast. The geometric pattern is laid out in treillage form.

Fine lines typical of the era, a chest of the highest quality, worthy of a place of honor in the home. Witty and ingenious, this auxiliary piece will captivate you with its unique shape that combines rich marquetry and elegance.

More about the Louis XV Style

The Louis XV style is an artistic style, especially present in the decorative arts, developed during the reign of Louis XV (1715-1774). Initially, the term “Louis XV Style” referred to a characteristic type of chairs, but it soon extended to all the arts of the period. This style was the creation of cabinetmakers as a result of a major technical advance in woodworking. It is identified with the architectural style known as Rococo. Like Rococo, it features abundant decoration and detail, in contrast with the later “Louis XVI Style,” which is simpler.

Napoleon III Style or Second Empire

The Napoleon III style or Second Empire is named because it originated 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, though in an artistic sense it extended a few years more (until 1880). This style was very popular among the French bourgeoisie. The emperor himself was involved in the artistic development of the moment, though more linked to architecture. However, it is to Empress Eugénie that the evolution of decorative arts is owed.

Although it draws inspiration from past styles, starting with Classical Antiquity, the Renaissance, and even in the Louis XVI, beloved by Eugénie, the most representative feature of the style is 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 major French styles of previous centuries, a kind of compilation of French decorative trends. Special reference is made to Louis XIV, Louis XV, Baroque and Rococo, and gradually Louis XVI, with eclectic roots. In short, the decorative styles that positioned France at the forefront of interior design and furniture design in Europe, both for quality and originality and beauty.

Good condition for its age and use.

Dimensions: 71 x 66 x 46 cm.
The shipment of the product will be paid by the buyer according to dimensions, weight, and destination. Shipping costs include professional, custom-made packaging; and personalized shipping, with tracking number and warranty. We will contact you to manage it and agree on the budget.