19th Century French Renaissance Revival Bookcase

19th Century French Renaissance Revival Bookcase is a magnificent expression of the revival of the most pivotal design genre in history!  Hand-crafted from select old-growth oak to last for centuries, it features a traditional bold crown molding carved with egg & dart & acanthus bordering, appearing over the bonnet which has been lavished with lovebirds nestled in a fully laden grapevine in bold, full relief.  Acanthus rosettes appear on each corner above the clockwise & counter-clockwise barley twist columns which provide a framework for the arched panels of the upper cabinet, each fitted with its original hand-rolled glass allowing one to appreciate the family heirlooms, books or keepsakes displayed within on the original adjustable shelves.  The lower cabinet juts out a bit and is trimmed with a gadrooned edge highlighted with foliates at the center and on the corners, overlooking the drawer tier which features intertwined vines centered with lions' heads which serve as the drawer pulls.  Rosettes separate the drawers and also appear on the corners above the barley twist columns to complement the upper tier.  Lower doors open wide to reveal substantial storage, but the most remarkable feature of this exquisite piece is the classic fable of the Fox and Hound carved in elaborate full relief on the doors, set in oval frames and complete with rustic fencing and foliage to represent a seminal work of the sculptor's art.  Triangular foliate flourishes appear on the corners, with bold molding providing the framework.  Below, and expanded version of the lower tier's top edge forms the base molding, hovering over the floor as if by magic.  Even the sides are fitted with no less than 10 raised & recessed chamfered panels, showing off the astounding talents of the cabinetmakers who created this instant family heirloom!
Circa 1850s
Measures 97H x 55.5W x 24D