Fine 19th Century French Bronze Mounted Beveled Glass Display Case / Vitrine Henri Dasson

Details

Description

Fine late 19th century, antique French Louis XVI -style vitrine, initialed H.D. attributed to Henri Dasson.
The display cabinet features … Read more Fine late 19th century, antique French Louis XVI -style vitrine, initialed H.D. attributed to Henri Dasson.
The display cabinet features a three-section design with beautifully beveled glass doors and side panels, allowing full visibility of the contents inside.
The vitrine is crafted of medium/ dark walnut—and is adorned with intricate gilt bronze (ormolu) mounts, including floral garlands, scrolls, and a central neoclassical medallion crest. The bronze quality is suberb and typical of Henri Dasson.
Henri Dasson (circa 1825–1896) was a celebrated Parisian ébéniste (cabinetmaker) renowned for his exceptional craftsmanship and gilt-bronze mounted furniture. Distinguished by his mastery of ormolu, Dasson specialized in recreating 18th-century French styles, particularly those of Louis XIV, Louis XV, and Louis XVI. His workshop at 106 Rue Vieille-du-Temple was a center for luxury furniture production, and his work was exhibited at major Paris expositions in 1878 and 1889. Dasson's furniture is noted for its opulence, precise bronze chiseling, and historical inspiration, making him one of the most important figures in 19th-century French decorative arts.
The display case features a three-section structure with gracefully curved glass panels on front and sides, molded detailing and elaborate top crest with central shield, wreath, classical helmet, and crossed weaponry signifying harmony of the arts and the virtues of courage and triumph. The upper horizontal frieze is distinguished by a repeating intertwined scroll and foliate garland, bordering the vitrine top—typical of high French ormolu work.
Gilt bronze ormolu appliqués featuring floral and neoclassical motifs, and lower side panels embellished with additional gilded filigree and urn motifs decorate the piece overall. The gilt bronze detail on the carved oval panels of the bottom doors represent ribbon-tied laurel and olive branches , musical instruments with crossed elements, and triangles symbolizing music festivities and abundance. These details add richness while highlighting the cabinet's contours.
The interior with a beige fabric backing, has two wood shelves plus a wood surface at the base to serve as an elegant display. The cabinet is raised on short hand carved cabriole legs.
All original hardware and glass.
Ideal for displaying collectibles, silver, porcelain, ceramics, Lalique, smalls, antiques, or fine glassware in a living room, dining area, or gallery setting. This vitrine is a statement piece perfect for traditional or eclectic interiors.
The depth varies from 16 1/4 " at the sides to 18 1/2" in the middle.
The fabric lining the back interior is old and in a few areas a bit frayed.
There are two keys with working locks, but we cannot guarantee that they will continue to work ongoing, as these French antique locks are temperamental .
If necessary, the vitrine can disassemble as it was made with old French bolts in the back, like a French armoire. See less