An antique Victorian walnut serpentine credenza, richly decorated with ormolu mounts and geometric parquetry marquetry inlay, executed in the Louis XVI style. The bronze mounts are by Maison Gagneau of Paris, several stamped “GA” to the reverse.
The shaped serpentine front is centred by an impressive marquetry panel, forming the main focal point of the piece, framed within a rectangular ormolu moulding. The frieze is further decorated with geometric parquetry inlay, incorporating a central floral motif, and is mounted with four ormolu masks of Hercules wearing the Nemean lion skin.
To either side are glazed doors, each opening to reveal a burgundy fabric-lined interior, while the central section also opens to a shelved storage space. The cabinet is further enhanced with arabesque ormolu mounts.
A pair of new keys has been cut, ensuring that each door is fully functional and can be securely closed.
A well-proportioned and decorative credenza, suitable for use in a dining room, hallway, or living space.
Maison Gagneau
Maison Gagneau was a Parisian bronzier and lighting manufacturer founded in 1800. The firm became highly regarded during the 19th century for its decorative bronzes and lighting, and is known to have worked with celebrated ceramicist Théodore Deck.
The business was originally based at 25 rue d’Enghien before moving to 115 rue Lafayette. Maison Gagneau exhibited at major French industrial and international exhibitions throughout the 19th century and was sufficiently well regarded that the firm was represented on the jury for the Bronzes category at the 1889 Exposition Universelle in Paris.
