Napoleon III Display Case in Carved and Gilded Wood, France, 1900s

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Napoleon iii display cabinet, carved and gilded wood, circa 1900 – france

style: napoleon iii
materials: wood and glass
period: … Read more Napoleon iii display cabinet, carved and gilded wood, circa 1900 – france

style: napoleon iii
materials: wood and glass
period: circa 1900
country of origin: france
good condition considering its age and use
overall dimensions: 164 x 92.5 x 44 cm
shelf spacing: 30 cm

an exquisite, late-period napoleon iii style display cabinet made of carved and gilded wood. It features an elegant and symmetrical structure, framed by slender fluted columns on its sides. The woodwork is exceptional, but the rich ornamentation of the upper cornice, adorned with floral motifs and garlands, is particularly noteworthy.

the front consists of a large glass door, allowing a view of the interior, ideal for displaying decorative objects, porcelain, tableware, books, or collectibles. Inside, it features three easily removable shelves, decorated with the same floral pattern as the background. This lightweight, practical, and versatile piece of furniture can be used for both storage and display.

style and era: napoleon iii or second empire

the napoleon iii or second empire style gets its name from the fact that it originated in france during that period. Strictly speaking, the second empire was proclaimed in 1852 and ended in 1870, led by louis napoleon bonaparte as emperor of the french, although in an artistic sense it extended a few years longer (until 1880). This style was very popular among the french bourgeoisie. The emperor himself was involved in the artistic development of the time, although more closely linked to architecture. However, it is empress eugénie who is credited with the evolution of the decorative arts.

although inspired by past styles, beginning with classical antiquity, the renaissance, and even the louis xvi style, much beloved by eugénie, the most representative characteristic of the style is its sumptuousness and ostentation, always aspiring to display wealth and opulence.

it is not a style designed specifically for the second empire, but rather a revival of the various great french styles of previous centuries, a kind of compilation of french decorative trends. Special reference is made to louis xiv, louis xv, baroque, and rococo, and gradually to the eclectic louis xvi. Ultimately, these are the decorative styles that had positioned france at the forefront of interior design and furniture design in europe, both for quality and for originality and beauty. These are highly ornate pieces. See less