A Very Fine Early 20th Century Gilt Bronze Mounted Louis XVI Style Malachite Vitrine Cabinet
Item # CC1216
A Very Fine Early 20th Century Gilt Bronze Mounted Louis XVI Style Malachite Vitrine Cabinet
The D-shaped top over central cupboard door flanked by two glazed cavetto doors opening to glass shelves, raised on short tapering legs, the central door mounted with a dancing muse over a pair of caryatid figures emerging from tight rocaille scrolls, the reverse of lockplate to central door stamped "DUVIVIER PARIS 77 Ru. ST. ANTOINE".
Malachite is a semi-precious stone and also a valuable copper ore, hydrous copper carbonate. It is a beautiful green earth stone with irregular black banding. It is easily recognized by its color, green streak, and silky or velvety luster. It was used to make beautiful jewelry and to adorn only the finest pieces of furniture. In the 18th and 19th centuries malachite was popular with Russian Czars and Nobility. They often used it to decorate their palaces and own personal furnishings. The Hermitage Museum has one of the biggest and best displays of Malachite pieces in the world.
Details:
Height – 60 inches / 152cm
Width – 52 inches / 132cm
Depth – 16 inches / 41cm