Description
Under the reign of Henry II, during the French Renaissance, the rigour of composition set boundaries to exuberant decors. This vogue of sharpness and rigour is a characteristic of this period’s style. The composition is classic in inspiration, always balanced and sober when compared to the Italian production. During this period cabinet-makers pose as architects of some sort. Indeed architectural harmony of the facade is at the core of their concerns. The studies of Antic modules is then an absolute necessity. From this care devoted to proportions appear refined furniture displaying pure and clean lines.
This cupboard really embodies its time. Its peculiarity resides in its two levels composition with three door-leaves adorned with finely carved lion heads on cut-out leathers. The cupboard presents a unic central door on the lower level and two doors on the upper one and is topped by a moulded cornice.
This upper level clearly obeys a ternary rythm with the central door presenting the same motif as the other two door-leaves framed by panels adorned with vegetal carvings. These three elements are flanked by two applied balusters. This first level is ended by a fluted pilaster on each side.
On the lower level panels are carved with Corinthian fluted pilasters in the continuation of the upper level in order to emphasize the harmony and balance of the composition.
The lower part of the cupboard is enriched by three sober moulded panels. The upper part of this cupboard stands on two thin Ionic columns.
In an astounding condition and beautifuly made this cupboard is a very elegant and perfect example of the French cabinet-making during the first half of the 16th century with its perfect architectural structure, the harmony of its proportions, the sobriety of its decor.