Japonesque Art Nouveau display cabinet in mahogany and mother-of-pearl

Japonesque Art Nouveau display cabinet / étagère in mahogany and mother-of-pearl

Late 19th century – circa 1890/1900

A charming Japonesque display cabinet / étagère in mahogany and mahogany veneer, highly characteristic of the Art Nouveau taste of the late 19th century.

The piece features a particularly elegant asymmetrical composition inspired by the Far Eastern arts that were so fashionable at the time.

The upper section is crowned by an open-fretwork pediment centred on a marquetry panel depicting a bird in flight.

To the left, a glazed-door vitrine with a glass shelf provides an ideal setting for displaying bibelots or collectibles. To the right, open shelves are enhanced with flowing fretwork cut-outs and delicate pokerwork floral decoration.

The door of the lower cabinet bears a finely engraved Japonesque design featuring bamboo, flowers, butterflies and a stylised bridge, highlighted with mother-of-pearl inlay.

The uprights, brackets and crosspieces are richly pierced and carved, lending the whole a pleasing sense of lightness.

The piece stands on four cabriole legs joined by a stretcher shelf.

A refined decorative work, perfectly suited to an Art Nouveau, eclectic or Japonesque interior.

Dimensions:

Height: 178 cm
Width: 73 cm
Depth: 35 cm

Condition:
Good overall state of preservation. Some traces of use and light wear consistent with the age of the piece.

A few minor losses to the mother-of-pearl inlay and slight age-related marks are noted, with no impact on the overall aesthetic.

Period: Late 19th century, circa 1890–1900

Style: Japonesque Art Nouveau

Materials: Mahogany, mahogany veneer, mother-of-pearl, glass