Actually, non. It is, however, an example of the enduring, if not endearing, French influence in the most traditional areas of English culture, in this case, antique cabinetmaking. The Victorian period was a melting pot of different aesthetic influences – Baroque, Mannerist and Gothic among others. French neoclassical was very much to the liking of cabinetmakers such as Edward and Roberts, Holland and Sons and also Gregory and Co., whose Regent Street address (1861-92) was stamped to the cabinet’s doors.
A neat drawing room piece closely related to the Sheraton Revival satinwood of the period, which is so popular with private buyers in the salerooms.
This cabinet was offered at Hamptons’ Godalming (15 per cent buyer’s premium) on January 17, where it was privately underbid before selling to the trade at £3600.
The French connection in the English tradition
UK: TAKE a look at this meuble d’appui right, mounted with gilt, painted with flowers and inlaid with olive, plum, rosewood, purpleheart and ebony – a sumptuous piece of late 19th century Gallic furniture, n’est-ce pas?
