Italian Brown and Burgundy Lacquered Display Cabinets, 1890s, Set of 2

Details

Description

Elegant pair of Italian chocolate brown and burgundy lacquered display cabinets, circa 1910, also referred to as vitrines or cupboards, … Read more Elegant pair of Italian chocolate brown and burgundy lacquered display cabinets, circa 1910, also referred to as vitrines or cupboards, with adjustable shelves and original hardware. Originally part of a Florentine school archive, these bookcases, boasting refined proportions and rich tones, are ideal for sophisticated libraries, studies, or contemporary living spaces. They combine timeless design with a deep sense of cultural heritage - reflecting the refined aesthetic of the Art Nouveau period.

This early 20th-century pair of Italian display cupboards is crafted in solid wood and finished in a sophisticated chocolate lacquer, a deep brown lacquered finish that enhances the natural grain of the wood.
The sides are elegantly lacquered in a refined burgundy tone, creating a subtle yet striking contrast with the chocolate-brown front. This interplay of colours adds depth and sophistication, making the cabinets particularly captivating from every angle — a detail that elevates their presence in any refined interior.The surface has a subtle sheen, reminiscent of a polished lacquer surface, giving the pieces a warm and elegant presence. Their rich tones and balanced proportions make them ideal for refined libraries, studies, or contemporary interiors. Each cabinet opens with double doors divided into four sections, with glass panels available on request. Inside, adjustable shelves allow for flexible display of books, decorative objects, or fine porcelain. The original brass hardware remains intact, a testament to the craftsmanship and authenticity of the period.

Behind one of the vitrines, the original maker’s label is still visible, reading “Ettore Fautrero”, a respected Turin-based company founded in 1913 and known for its fine wood craftsmanship. The workshops played an important role in Italy’s early 20th-century wood industry. The company’s history, preserved in the Archivio Storico della Città di Torino, tells a story of skill and resilience. Its premises were damaged during the Second World War, particularly in the air raid of 13 July 1943. Although the company is no longer active, its legacy remains a testament to the excellence of Italian manufacturing. The presence of this original label confirms the authenticity of the piece and adds a wonderful layer of provenance, connecting it to Italy’s rich design heritage and to the ideals of the Arts and Crafts movement, which celebrated honest materials and artisanal mastery.

Originally part of a Florentine school archive, these display cases once safeguarded books and teaching materials, standing as quiet witnesses to decades of Italian academic life. Their refined proportions and enduring craftsmanship reflect the dignity of their original setting, while their timeless design allows them to transition beautifully into contemporary interiors.

Modern Uses
Today, these antique vitrines can be reimagined in many ways. They make stunning bookcases in a home library, elegant display cupboards for art books or ceramics, or sophisticated lacquered storage cabinets in a dining room for glassware and linens. In a boutique or gallery, they can serve as refined showcases for curated collections or design objects. Their architectural lines and dark lacquered wood finish allow them to blend seamlessly into both classic and modern interiors, adding character and history to any space.

Whether framing a curated library, displaying art books, or anchoring a collector’s salon, they bring a sense of cultivated elegance that only true antiques possess.

Condition: Good, with lacquer showing signs of age and use consistent with time. Original hardware present.

Dimensions:
Height: 221 cm
Width: 104 cm
Depth: 31 cm See less