Bureau bookcase with drop-leaf. Three drawers plus two. Drop-leaf doors. Nine small drawers, open compartment and leather insert inside. The upper case has two doors with glass and wooden grills. Richly decorated in polychromy with plant motifs. Reserves with decorated genre scenes on the sides. Manufactured in England, 19th century.
Product Condition: Cabinet in fair condition. Wear consistent with age and use.
The term Victorian refers to one of the predominant styles used during the Victorian era. Like the latter, it roughly refers to the duration of the reign of Queen Victoria (20 June 1837 - 22 January 1901), from which it took its name. Characterized by a great expansion of the home furnishing market and by new mechanized production possibilities, but not by great aesthetic innovations, but by the revival of stylistic elements from various previous eras.
Age: 19th Century / 1801 - 1900
19th Century / 1801 - 1900
Main essence: Mahogany
It is one of the most precious and sought-after woods in cabinet making. It was discovered in Central America around 1600 and began to be imported to England in the 1700s. Much appreciated for its hardness and indestructibility, it became widespread following the blocking of walnut exports from France in 1720 and the consequent elimination of English import duties on mahogany from the colonies in America and India. The most valuable version comes from Cuba, but it became very expensive. At the end of the 18th century it began to be used also in France in Louis XVI, Directory and Empire furniture, its diffusion declined starting from when Napoleon, in 1810, forbade its import. It was generally used in the manufacture of elegant furniture, due to its characteristics and beautiful grain.