19th Century French Walnut Henri II Bookcase ~ Display Armoire

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A 19th century French Henri II bookcase and display armoire in blonde walnut, trimmed with ebonized moldings and set with … Read more A 19th century French Henri II bookcase and display armoire in blonde walnut, trimmed with ebonized moldings and set with panels of burl wood, brings the architecture of the French Renaissance to a cabinet made for showing treasured collections. The crest rises in a broken scroll pediment centered by an urn finial above a carved fan, flanked by scrolled wings, with ball finials crowning each front corner. Beneath the stepped cornice, the frieze is fitted with raised panels, and the door of original beveled glass is matched by glazed sides that fill the interior with light across three glass shelves, all set against warm walnut planking.
Fluted half columns turned with urn forms frame the door, resting on paneled plinth blocks above a fluted base. A full width drawer below is outlined in diagonal moldings around a carved central rosette with a brass bale pull, and turned bun feet complete the composition. The contrast of pale walnut, ebonized trim and figured burl gives the case a lightness that suits a tall, architectural form.
During the Second Empire under Napoleon III, the 19th century revival of all French styles celebrated the refined legacy of French furniture making, and the era became a glorious period for French cabinetmakers. The Henri II style was among the most admired of these revivals, prized for its columns, pediments and carved ornament, and it became a favorite for libraries and dining rooms in fine homes across France.
Circa 1870s
Measures 102H x 46W x 24.5D
Available at Inessa Stewarts Antiques in Dallas Texas See less