Fabulous and quite rare to find miniature bow-front vitrine, c.1880-1910, made in a manner that was meant to mimic the c.1700s Vernis Martin furnishing. The serpentine form, all 3 sides with hand moulded serpentine glass which is original to it, is narrower in front and wider across the back. Beautifully preserved, apart from the silk top fabric which does show much age, some deterioration. The side and front panels, and glass, and interior lining all have almost no wear or signs of age. We've had a few varied forms of this material, sedan chairs and watch stands and lower credenza-like miniature furnishings, have all been more worn or shown some deterioration to the panels. I have to say, apart from that top, which could be quite easily covered with newer moire silk for a very fine result, is just fabulous. The door opener is a small plaque of kiln-fired enamel set into an ormolu apparatus which does work the latch on the inside door. The small armoire or vitrine is 10" tall. It's a wonderful one to display jewelry, perfume bottles or even portrait miniatures. Full measurements noted on the photos.
Very good to excellent for age and type. As noted, the top of the little vitrine, covered in moire silk, shows a good deal of its age. That top panel can be relatively easily removed and 'reupholstered' with a nice pale pink moire silk fabric to match the interior, or a cream silk velvet, which is what once was full and lush up top there. There is a water stain on the silk on the rear, one bottom corner. Hinge and clasp working just fine and there are no warped panels.
