Details
Description
This breathtaking late-19th-century German vitrine, signed by the distinguished cabinetmaker J. Groschkus, represents one of the finest examples of Continental …
Read more
This breathtaking late-19th-century German vitrine, signed by the distinguished cabinetmaker J. Groschkus, represents one of the finest examples of Continental craftsmanship from the 1880s. Exquisitely constructed in walnut and burled elm, the cabinet features an extraordinarily elaborate array of inlays—including abalone, mother-of-pearl, and light-reflecting shell accents—arranged in scrolling arabesques, floral tendrils, and delicate neoclassical motifs. The result is a surface that shimmers with iridescence and depth, contrasting beautifully with the richly hand-polished wood.
The vitrine’s form is equally masterful. The upper cabinet features deeply bowed glass panels, a technical achievement requiring exceptional skill in both glass bending and cabinetmaking. These curved glass doors open to reveal mirrored backing and shaped glass shelves designed to showcase fine porcelain, decorative arts, or treasured collections. The arched crest is adorned with pierced bronze gallery work and sweeping rococo flourishes, reinforcing the cabinet’s sense of movement and grandeur.
Below, the serpentine apron rests upon elegant cabriole legs, each adorned with chased and gilded bronze figural mounts in the form of classical maidens—hallmarks of luxury German and Austrian decorative arts of the late 19th century. The casting quality is amazing. Additional bronze mounts, including acanthus leaves, scrolls, masks, and floral appliqués, frame the case and amplify its sculptural presence. Every detail demonstrates an unwavering dedication to artistry and refinement.
J. Groschkus, He was exclusive supplier of furniture for the Imperial court of Germany and active in Germany during the latter part of the 19th century, was known for producing high-quality salon furniture, vitrines, étagères, and exhibition pieces that combined German precision with French Rococo revival and Vienna Secession influences. His work is rarely encountered, and surviving examples are prized by collectors for their exceptional construction, ornate inlay, and richly mounted surfaces.
This vitrine is an exqusite showpiece from all angles—perfect for a formal living room, study, or grand entry hall. Its combination of rare, exotic materials, masterful joinery, and museum-level decoration makes it a standout example of German luxury furniture from the Belle Époque period.
A true collector’s cabinet, this signed J. Groschkus vitrine offers unparalleled craftsmanship, decorative richness, and historical importance—an exceptional opportunity for connoisseurs of 19th-century Continental furniture.
Measures 83.5 tall x 35.75 wide x 20.75
J. Groschkus vitrine, German 19th-century cabinet, mother-of-pearl inlay, abalone inlaid furniture, bronze mounted vitrine, bowed glass cabinet, walnut and burl elm showcase, Belle Époque display cabinet, antique German vitrines, Rococo revival furniture Germany.
See less
- Dimensions
- 35.75ʺW × 20ʺD × 83.5ʺH
- Styles
- Louis XV
- Period
- Late 19th Century
- Country of Origin
- Germany
- Item Type
- Vintage, Antique or Pre-owned
- Materials
- Abalone
- Bronze
- Mahogany
- Mother-of-Pearl
- Condition
- Good Condition, Original Condition Unaltered, Some Imperfections
- Color
- Brown
- Condition Notes
- No major issues to mention. Condition is good with no more than minor wear and signs of use No major issues to mention. Condition is good with no more than minor wear and signs of use less
Questions about the item?
Returns & Cancellations
Return Policy - All sales are final 48 hours after delivery, unless otherwise specified in the description of the product.
Related Collections
- Gesso China and Display Cabinets
- Noir China and Display Cabinets
- Thomasville China and Display Cabinets
- Antique Hutch Cabinets
- Ethan Allen China and Display Cabinets
- Drexel China and Display Cabinets
- Broyhill China and Display Cabinets
- Display Cabinets with Glass Doors
- Henredon China and Display Cabinets
- Corner Display Cabinets
- Drexel Heritage China and Display Cabinets
- Mid-Century Modern China and Display Cabinets
- Glass Curio Display Cabinets
- Century Furniture China and Display Cabinets
- Victorian China and Display Cabinets
- Art Deco China and Display Cabinets
- Baker Furniture Company China and Display Cabinets
- Mahogany China and Display Cabinets
- Cherry Wood China and Display Cabinets
- Oak China and Display Cabinets
- Curio Display Cabinets
- American of Martinsville China and Display Cabinets
- Chippendale China and Display Cabinets
- Henkel Harris China and Display Cabinets
- Antique Display Cabinets