19th Century French Renaissance Petit Open Bookcase

Price: $3,980

19th Century French Renaissance Petit Open Bookcase is a remarkable example of the later Renaissance Revival masterworks that were produced by French craftsmen during turbulent political times.  Designed on a much smaller scale than is typically found, it features all the elements of the larger versions, including a boldly molded crown with steps forward on each corner and entirely carved with acanthus leaf motif, all appearing over a substantial bonnet.  The bonnet is trimmed in molding top to bottom, with recessed chamfered panels on the sides and exquisite rosettes on the corners framing an elaborate foliate spray centered with a lion's head on an heraldic crest all executed in bold full relief.  Under the rosettes the corners are lavished with full relief images of roaring lions, game carvings and foliates.  The corners provide a framework for the shelves of the bookcase itself, each of which is fitted on cleverly designed adjustable mounts.  Diagonal-in-rectangle panels grace each side for visual appeal from any angle.  A multi-tiered base with bun feet provides support.
Circa 1870s
Measures 64.5H x 42W x 17.5D