Antique Henri II Buffet a Deux Corps with Marble Inlay
2102-99264
(Click the Item No. for an inquiry)87 x 61 x 25
Location : Baton Rouge
Sculpted in stunning relief on the upper cabinet door of this exceptional buffet by award-winning sculptor Andre-Joseph Allar (French, 1845-1926) are symbols of the architectural elements of line, color and form, crafted by Parisian artisans during the Greek Revival period of the second half of the 19th century. Framed by fluted doric columns and facing pediments centered with an elaborately festooned urn, the inspired work is only a portion of the magnificent workmanship throughout, all rendered in select French walnut. The comparatively simple adornment on the remainder of the chamfered panels, which are expertly performed, is set off by the marble inlaid into strategic accent areas. Elegant tapered and carved columns combine with bold molded detail to provide a framework, while beveled glazing on the two outboard cabinet doors below provide additional display capability.
More about the sculptor ~ A pupil of Dantan, Guillaume and Cavelier, Andre Joseph Allar was born in Toulon in August of 1845 and returned there in his twilight years, passing away at the ripe old age of 81. Spending much of his professional life in and around Paris, and studying his art in Italy, he won the Grand Prix de Rome in 1869 and continued his studies in Italy. Returning to France in early 1870s, Allar exhibited at the Salon and at the Universal Exhibitions, winning numerous medals. A versatile and prolific sculptor, Allar worked in various media with equal success. His oeuvre includes many commissions for the decoration of public buildings and monuments, such as the Palais de Justice, the Opra-Comique, the anatomy gallery at the Jardin des Plantes and the Grand Palais.
Circa 1870s.
Measures 87 x 61 x 25.
