Late 19th Century Companion Pair of French Gilt Bronze Mounted De Cooene Freres Attr. Buffets

Details

Description

This highly decorative and imposing pair of sideboards (or buffets) is a spectacular example of high-end Rococo Revival furniture, likely … Read more This highly decorative and imposing pair of sideboards (or buffets) is a spectacular example of high-end Rococo Revival furniture, likely dating from the late 19th to early 20th century. With their flamboyant shaping, superb marquetry work, and extensive use of d'Oré gilt bronze mounts, these pieces are strongly attributed to the workshops of De Coene Frères (De Coene Brothers) of Courtrai, Belgium, who were renowned for their exceptional quality and faithful reproductions of French court styles.

Design and Craftsmanship
These sideboards embody the curvilinear grace of the Louis XV Rococo style, characterized by its asymmetrical curves and playful elegance:

Shaping: The serpentine front of each cabinet is immediately striking, providing a dynamic, fluid silhouette that is central to the Rococo aesthetic.

Marquetry: The body of each buffet is clad in richly figured timber (possibly walnut or mahogany) and features exquisite geometric marquetry panels—a tessellated pattern creating visual depth and richness. The central cupboard doors showcase more complex boulle-style or shaped veneer panels.

Marble Tops: The serpentine tops are finished with fitted veined marble slabs, likely a warm-toned material such as Breche or Rosso Levanto, offering a luxurious, durable surface.

Gilt Bronze Mounts: The pieces are heavily adorned with opulent d'Oré gilt bronze mounts—a hallmark of quality French and Belgian cabinetmaking. These mounts include scrolling escutcheons, ornate handles (visible on the corners), aprons, and decorative sabots (feet caps), all finished in shimmering gold leaf to capture the light and enhance the dramatic form.

Mirrors and Utility
A particularly striking feature is the raised mirrored superstructure on each cabinet. The oval mirrors are crowned with highly detailed, symmetrical cartouche-shaped gilt bronze crestings, adding significant vertical presence and decorative flair, elevating them from simple sideboards to showstopping pieces of furniture.

Internally, the cabinets are fitted for storage, with one piece appearing to have a central drawer and open storage, while the other shows interior shelving, highlighting their utility for a dining room or grand hall.

This pair represents the pinnacle of Belle Époque luxury, offering an unparalleled statement of opulence and master craftsmanship for the discerning collector.

They measure 71 tall x 62.75 wide x 22.75 deep and serving hieght is 43.5 inches See less