19th Century French Renaissance Bookcase ~ Bibliotheque

19th Century French Renaissance Bookcase ~ Bibliotheque is an excellent example of the hand-carved sculptural works of art that were produced by the French during the revival of the Renaissance style in the mid-1800s.  Crafted from solid sumptuous French walnut, this design features a bold crown molding fitted with turned finials and carved with a satyr's head flanked by undulating foliates.  Rosettes appear on the corners directly above the pair of turned, fluted and carved columns that provide a framework for the piece.  Inside are the original shelves set upon adjustable shelf supports.  The doors are glazed with hand-rolled glass and framed by carved acanthus bordering, but the panels below require a close examination to be fully appreciated!  Rendered by the sculptor's hand in glorious full relief, the panel on the left depicts various musical instruments overlaid on sheet music with actual notes carved into the pages, intertwined with grapevines and ribbon.  On the right side, symbols of architecture have received the same attentions by the sculptor, with the two concepts indicating the primary areas of interest of the person who had the bookcase commissioned.  A full width drawer with a comical animal's face flanked by scrolled foliates appears below the cabinet doors, with boldly carved base molding and bun feet completing the look.
Circa 1850s
Measures 87H x 61W x 21D