19th Century French Louis XVI Painted Vanity

19th Century French Louis XVI Painted Vanity is a rare example of fine French craftsmanship devoted to a particular daily ritual for which it serves with aplomb!  Four elegant cabriole legs carved with acanthus leaves and cloven hoof feet provide support, and the casework consists of a pair of bronze bale pulls on a full width drawer ergonomically contoured to provide comfortable access to the entire piece.  Fine molded detail surrounds the work, including spiral ribbon and classical forms.  Thick glass has been meticulously contoured and beveled to protect the surface, underneath which silk or other types of decorative fabrics can be place; in this case the original lace work is visible.  The wraparound back unit cradles the original beveled mirror, with a pair of candle shelves on each flank, surrounded by finely detailed framework.  Carved enhancements include rose sprays, spiral ribbon, and on top a magnificent ode to the Queen depicting gardening tools, a sun bonnet, and floral sprays paying homage to the Queen's affection for formal gardens.  Hand-crafted from imported mahogany, it features its original ivory colored paint which has achieved a lovely patina over the past century!
Circa 1890s
Measures 58.5H x 36W x 21D; surface 30.5H