Bookcase or Vitrine from France in the Louis XVI style. This piece has made of solid wood construction, primarily mahogany. The bookcase has been ebonized and finished with a lustrous, museum-quality French polish. The classic curved details at the corners and feet are present. This piece has a single door that opens to three interior glass shelves. There are glass panels on the door and sides. The interior is mirrored on the back. The door has a working lock and key. There is brass trim and hardware throughout, including brass feet at the bottom of the toupee legs. The vitrine is in excellent antique condition – the photos accurately depict the condition.
Louis XVI Style refers to the style defined by the period in France under the reign of King Louis XVI (1760-1789) — the last French monarch before the Revolution. Inspired by the discoveries of Pompeii and Herculaneum, this era saw a revival of Greek and Roman styles. There was a sharp movement away from the Rococo style, as curved lines and heavy ornamentation became unfashionable, giving way to clean, straight lines. Restrained, geometrical forms were preferred and stylized references to classical Greek architecture were recaptured. Furniture and interiors were refined, sophisticated, calm and symmetrical.