Louis-Philippe Mirrored Cabinet in Mahogany, 1860

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Description

A single-door wardrobe with a mirrored door and a base drawer, stylistically attributable to the Louis-Philippe period around 1860. The … Read more A single-door wardrobe with a mirrored door and a base drawer, stylistically attributable to the Louis-Philippe period around 1860. The curved pediment, the calmly structured surfaces, and the flamed mahogany grain create a harmonious and clearly proportioned overall impression. Historical Context: During the 19th century, the wardrobe became the central storage piece in middle-class bedrooms, replacing chests and wall hooks. with the increasing industrial production of mirror glass, large-format mirrors became more affordable and found their place in the wardrobe door as dressing mirrors. Single-door mirrored wardrobes were typical for smaller bedrooms, dressing rooms, or as an addition to larger bedroom ensembles. At that time, clothing was predominantly hung on hooks or folded and stored in compartments, as clothes hangers and clothes rails only became widespread later. Features: The shelves are height-adjustable via toothed rails on the sides, allowing for flexible interior organization. Beneath the lower shelf is a continuous row of metal hooks, corresponding to the original hanging storage of clothing. Design: The wardrobe follows the Louis-Philippe design language with smooth, veneer-dominated surfaces and a largely devoid of carving. The design is defined by the grain of the flamed mahogany veneer, which is mirrored on the gable and drawer. The curved, multi-profiled gable forms a calm upper finish, while chamfered corners on the body and base soften the vertical lines. The mirrored door with rounded upper corners and the robust base with carved feet clearly divide the structure into crowning, body, and base. Function: Formerly: Wardrobe for hanging clothes on hooks and for storing linens in compartments, with an integrated dressing mirror. Today: Wardrobe or linen closet, hall closet, or storage unit in the living area; the interior can be fitted with additional shelves or a clothes rail upon request. Dimensions: Height 221 cm × Width 109 cm × Depth 50 cm. Material and condition: Body and front with flamed mahogany veneer, interior in lighter wood, mirrored door with inset mirror glass, metal hooks. Used, age-appropriate condition with visible patina and signs of wear, including edge wear on the shelves. Due to age, the wood and back panel show shrinkage cracks and splits. See less