Vienna, First Empire period, circa 1800-1810. Extremely rare bookcase in intact condition. Veneered in top-quality blond walnut feather, with parts ebonized in smoke black; interior of the doors veneered in bird's-eye maple. Finely sculpted and gold-leafed caryatids with acanthus-motif bases typical of the period and provenance. Original doors creating a circular motif with ebonized rays emanating in a radial pattern, symbolizing the sun as a symbol of eternity, again echoing ancient Egyptian culture, and a motif present in the Viennese Empire. Interiors with original lacquer in a delicate ivory-white hue, patinated by time. Carved and gold-leafed seed decoration adorning the cornice, typical of the era and provenance, reminiscent of ancient Rome. Furniture with a warm original patina, in practically intact condition, including the painting, glass, lock, escutcheons, back panels, and base, all original, with a perfect French polish finish applied with a pad using a museum-standard technique, fully respecting the original patina. Dimensions: height cm. 175, maximum depth cm. 47.5, body cm. 40. Maximum width cm. 122, body cm. 115. P.S. True original bookcases are among the rarest types of antique furniture in existence, as they were the exclusive appanage and commission of the learned noble classes at the time, and intended almost exclusively for castles and patrician residences. It is in Vienna that the Empire style reaches its maximum splendor. The atmosphere of the Viennese court, which anticipates the myth of "Austria Felix," infects patrician residences and the inspiration of artisans, whose works combine caprice and royalty into a unique and original whole, with an almost "feminine" aspect and not strictly "austere" as in France, but always with an evident reference to sobriety. The tendencies towards a curvature of the structures, in a refined elegance, almost anticipate the soft lines of Biedermeier. Also for this reason, this style, of exceptional rarity, is one of the most requested and sought after among all eras. Perfectly combinable with high-level modern furniture and design.
In accordance with the provisions of the New Code of Cultural Heritage, the selling company provides, simultaneously with the sale, a detailed written photographic guarantee of the originality and provenance of the works sold. The data with which the works are described and then contained in the written guarantees are expressed determinations resulting from accurate and documented technical/historical/artistic investigations, even of expert assessment.
Learn about the very rare Viennese First Empire. Read the history of this elegant and sober style and learn to evaluate Viennese masterpieces without time. Click on the link at the bottom of the page to read an original, concise practical guide to this style, unique in Italy.
