Just in from France, a splendid display cabinet, 18th to early 19th century wood body with heavy carving and a beautiful gilded finish, this one locks on all compartments (3) and still has its original key. Crimson silk velvet lining, my experience tells me it was once a catholic cabinet which likely held a carved figure of Mary or perhaps Christ in the central cabinet and perhaps reliquary of saints on the shelves to each side. Begs to hold your precious collections, perhaps perfumes, portrait miniatures (as shown) or antique jewelry pieces. It's just a stunningly beautiful cabinet when closed and locked but also so gorgeous with doors open and your treasures on display. Should you wish to add small back legs, it could be a fabulous antique Bru or other doll armoire, as well. Size is right. Full measurements noted on the photos.
Very good to excellent, age and type considered. My leaning is to it being 18th century, Louis XV-XVI, but it could be early 1800s, not later. Ecclesiastical cabinet, perhaps. It does not stand on a tabletop but could be slightly adapted with legs at back to do so. It is a hanging cabinet. The fabulous old finish is very fine, no chips or breaks, no cracks. You can see from the backside how it is made and that the old wood backing does have some very old woodworm holes. The lush crimson silk velvet lined interior is also very nice for age and there are shelves in the side compartments but not in the center. Certainly you could add a couple, or hang your collections on the silk fabric, or small hanging nails (needles work best) for portrait miniatures or jewelry. Lots of photos from all angles of view. Displayed, will take your breath away!
