An Ebony and Ebonized Walnut and Fruitwood Cabinet on Stand

17th century, with later additions

AN EBONY AND EBONIZED WALNUT AND FRUITWOOD MARQUETRY CABINET ON STAND (French, 17th century, with later additions) with interior rosewood veneer and ivory inlay. The top of the rectangular cabinet has an overhanging cornice above a bas-relief carved frieze depicting mythological sea creatures. The cabinet body is sectioned with similar carved drawer panels depicting classical putti motifs. These drawers surround a double door interior cabinet above a writing slide, which opens to reveal a painted architectural trompe l’oeil perspective of a classical temple. The interior compartment is flanked by three small drawers on either side of a mirrored recess with an interior painted panel of a garden scene. Typically in a cabinet such as this, a small treasured object would be placed in this mirrored recess to allow for admiration at different angles. The lower stand section provides support with six columns connected by flat stretchers and stands on urn shaped feet.

French

ebony

rosewood

ivory

ebonized wood

67 3/4" x 57" x 21 1/4"

Bequest of Mrs. Alletta Morris McBean.

PSNC.8417