FOLDING TRAVELLING LIQUEUR CABINET (CAVE À LIQUEUR) WITH MARQUETRY. FRANCE, LATE 19TH CENTURY

An elegant French folding travelling liqueur cabinet, or cave à liqueur, made in the late 19th century in the tradition of the Napoleon III period. This refined cabinet accessory combines accomplished craftsmanship with practical functionality. The case is made of ebonised wood and decorated with fine marquetry in contrasting light-coloured woods, forming elegant geometric cartouches and ornamental compositions across the lid and sides.

The case opens by means of a folding mechanism to reveal a complete liqueur service comprising four original cut-crystal decanters with stoppers and sixteen liqueur glasses. The object retains the original concept of a portable cabinet intended for the convenient transport and storage of beverages during travel, as well as for use in a gentleman’s study, library or smoking room.

The contrast between the ebonised wood and the pale marquetry, together with the finely crafted bronze fittings and shaped lock, lends the ensemble particular distinction. The original key is included. Such caves à liqueur were characteristic features of affluent European interiors, combining a representative appearance with practical purpose and exemplifying the high standards of French decorative arts in the second half of the 19th century.

Dimensions: Height: 26.5 cm. Width: 32.5 cm. Depth: 24.5 cm.

Condition: Good condition. Complete with four decanters, sixteen glasses and the original key. Minor signs of age consistent with the period of manufacture.