Research
Of black lacquer. The serpentine fronted top with molded edge with stylized foliate decoration centered by an oriental scene inside a decorative border flanked by oriental figures, the top above two conforming doors to the front with chinoiserie decoration within a restored diaper pattern border flanked by serpentine-fronted single doors each depicting an oriental figure within a diaper pattern border, the central doors opening to reveal an interior fitted with serpentine fronted shelves each with a molded edge, the side doors opening to reveal four serpentine fronted drawers, each drawer decorated with oriental scenes, with replaced brass drop handles. The sides with restored scenic landscape decoration. The whole above a molded edge with stylized decoration above six bracket feet joined by a continuous serpentine apron with stylized foliate decoration.
Provenance:
A Connecticut Collection
This unusual Chinoiserie cabinet was possibly made in the Low Countries, perhaps close to the famed center for decorated finishes in the town of Spa in Belgium.
Various technical aspects of the cabinet’s construction point to a Low Countries origin such as the wide gauge of the drawer linings in oak and wide single panel back. English influences are also present in the bracket feet and serpentine shaping. The Low Countries proximity and trade with Britain made Anglophile aspects of furniture design inevitable.
The lacquering is of an interesting character and again one detects the influence of English work particularly in the large figures of the flanking doors which are reminiscent of the oeuvre of the lacquerist workshop of Giles Grendey (1693-1780).
Full research report available on request.