Pair of gilt bronze mounted marquetry cabinets by Durand

Pair of gilt bronze mounted marquetry cabinets by Durand
French, late 19th Century
Height 137cm, width 99cm, depth 40cm
 
Gervais Durand was an exceptional furniture maker of the later 19th Century, known especially for his reproductions of 18th Century works, but also responsible for some strikingly original designs. These cabinets display some of his best work. In particular, the kingwood and tulipwood marquetry panels which adorn the front and side panels of the cabinets are intricately and beautifully finished, showing Rococo style scrolling floral patterns. The cabinets are set on cabriole legs terminating in four gilt bronze hoof feet. The sides of each cabinet are slightly curved, and the front consists of two full length gilt bronze mounted doors. The cupboards are lockable via a centrally mounted gilt bronze keyhole, and the interior of each cabinet contains three wooden shelves. Each cabinet is topped with shaped pink veined marble and stamped 'G. Durand' to the reverse.