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1 of 253523 objects
Pair of cabinets 1803
Oak, ebony, mahogany, pewter, hardstones, porphyry, gilt bronze | 105.2 x 113.5 x 63.0 cm (whole object) | RCIN 31308
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Pair of rectangular ebony-veneered oak cabinets; each with granite top, fitted with a frieze drawer above two doors, raised on six gilt bronze feet, the four at the front terminating in paws. Front divided into three by four uprights, the outer two with gilt bronze sphinx terms. Decorated overall with pietra dure low relief panels depicting birds and vases of flowers. This pair of cabinets was commissioned in Paris for the Prince of Wales (later George IV) by his friend Sir Harry Fetherstonhaugh in 1802, during a break in hostilities between England and France. Lignereux's French Empire design incorporates seventeenth-century Florentine plaques with fashionable Egyptian gilt bronze heads. David Cohen has suggested, based on considerable documentary evidence, that the mounts are by P.-P. Thomire.
Provenance
Commissioned for George IV in Paris, in 1803, by Sir Harry Fetherstonhaugh from Martin-Eloy Lignereux, for £380. The Parisian dealer Martin-Eloy Lignereaux. Ligneruex's premises in the rue Vivienne appears to have been inundated with English tourists during the brief interlude in the Napoleonic wars from 1802-3. Some complained his prices were too high but others enthused over the excellent quality of his stock. One visitor, Bertie Greatheed, recorded in March 1803 'Nothing can be more beautiful and more costly. Tables and Secretaires of yew, with gilt and Bronze ornaments for 1000 Louis. For 30 per Ct. advance he will deliver them to England. He says the chief sale is there. The bronze figures supprting candles, the lamps, the clocks, the china tables are all in the richest and best taste'.
Regilded by Vulliamy in 1810. Sent to Morel & Seddon from the Bow Room, Basement floor, Carlton House on 1 November 1827.
Part of the group of furniture and furnishings supplied between 1827 and 1829 to King George IV by the partnership of Morel and Seddon for His Majesty’s Bedroom at Windsor Castle. -
Creator(s)
(retailer/supplier)(nationality)Acquirer(s)
Commissioner(s)
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Medium and techniques
Oak, ebony, mahogany, pewter, hardstones, porphyry, gilt bronze
Measurements
105.2 x 113.5 x 63.0 cm (whole object)
98.7 x 113.5 x 53.0 cm (excluding base/stand)
Category
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