19th C. French Napoleon III Style Inlaid Poudreuse End Table by Paul Sormani

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Description

Dimensions: 30 inches high x 19.5 inches wide x 13.75 inches deep

An exceptional 19th-century French Napoleon III style poudreuse … Read more Dimensions: 30 inches high x 19.5 inches wide x 13.75 inches deep

An exceptional 19th-century French Napoleon III style poudreuse or dressing table by Paul Sormani & Fils, featuring exquisite inlaid decoration, ebonized wood, gilt-bronze mounts, and an ingenious interior concealed beneath its hinged top. The piece is signed on the lock “P. Sormani & Fils, 10 Rue Charlot, Paris,” connecting this elegant petite meuble to one of the most celebrated cabinetmaking firms of 19th-century Paris.

Designed with the versatility of a small dressing, writing, or occasional table, this sophisticated piece features a beautifully shaped rectangular top with projecting rounded corners and a richly figured inlaid panel framed by contrasting borders. The top lifts to reveal a fitted interior with a mirror and tufted blue upholstered compartment, providing an intimate vanity or dressing area while allowing the table to function discreetly as an elegant end or accent table when closed.

The exterior is executed in a striking combination of deep ebonized black wood and warm figured wood inlays, creating the dramatic contrast so characteristic of high-quality Napoleon III furniture. The inlaid decoration continues across the frieze and lower shelf, including geometric panels and a central diamond-form motif. Subtle gilt-bronze mounts and edging accentuate the architectural lines of the case and provide a restrained touch of luxury.

The front is fitted with two drawers, each beautifully veneered and framed, with the central portion incorporating an elaborately shaped lock escutcheon. The table is supported by four elegant turned and tapered legs with columnar and fluted detailing, embellished with gilt-bronze collars and mounts. A lower platform or shelf joins the legs, providing additional display or storage space while repeating the intricate inlaid decoration found throughout the piece.

Paul Sormani & Fils

Paul Sormani (1817–1877) was one of the foremost Parisian cabinetmakers of the 19th century. Born in the Kingdom of Lombardy-Venetia, Sormani established his Paris business in 1847 and became particularly renowned for producing exceptionally fine furniture inspired by the great French styles of the Ancien Régime, especially Louis XV and Louis XVI, alongside original works and smaller luxury furnishings. His work was repeatedly exhibited at major international exhibitions, where the quality of his craftsmanship earned important medals and recognition.

In 1867, Sormani established his celebrated workshops at 10 Rue Charlot in Paris, an address that became closely associated with the firm's finest production. Contemporary exhibition commentary praised the firm's work for its exceptionally high level of execution.

Following Paul Sormani's death in 1877, the business continued under his widow, Ursule-Marie-Philippine Bouvaist, and their son Paul-Charles Sormani, operating under the name Veuve Paul Sormani & Fils. The firm continued producing high-quality furniture in the Louis XV, Louis XVI, and broader historicist styles. It remained an important Parisian furniture house into the 20th century, eventually relocating to Boulevard Haussmann before closing in 1934.

The “P. Sormani & Fils, 10 Rue Charlot, Paris” lock signature is therefore an important feature of this piece, identifying it with the Sormani enterprise at its renowned Rue Charlot workshops. Comparable Sormani furniture with Rue Charlot lock signatures is documented in major auction records, including Christie’s and Sotheby’s.

A beautiful example of French antique furniture, Napoleon III decorative arts, and luxury Parisian cabinetmaking, this Sormani poudreuse is equally compelling as a collector's piece, vanity, occasional table, or sophisticated accent table.
The piece is in good antique condition with the exception of some light surface scratches, Minor finish loss and normal age related wear. As to be expected with items of age and use.


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