Overview

A superb late 19th century French Vernis Martin vitrine cabinet, dating to circa 1880, retaining its original marble top, gilt bronze ormolu mounts, and beautifully painted pastoral panels. A refined example of the Louis XV revival taste popular during the Belle Époque period - combining decorative richness with elegant practical utility.

Key Features

  • French, circa 1880 - Louis XV Revival, Belle Époque
  • Original marble top retained
  • Richly mounted frieze with intricate gilt bronze ormolu mounts
  • Two glazed doors opening to glass shelving and fabric-lined interior
  • Hand-painted Vernis Martin pastoral panels to the lower section
  • Romantic pastoral figures framed in delicate gilt borders
  • Slender cabriole legs terminating in ormolu sabots
  • Ideal for displaying porcelain, objets d'art, or fine glassware

Craftsmanship & Detail

The serpentine marble top sits above a richly mounted frieze adorned with intricate gilt bronze mounts - the two glazed doors opening to reveal glass shelving and a fabric-lined interior of generous proportions. The lower panels feature hand-painted Vernis Martin scenes depicting romantic pastoral figures, framed in delicate gilt borders with the characteristic warmth and luminosity associated with the finest examples of this celebrated lacquer technique. The slender cabriole legs terminating in ormolu sabots give the piece both lightness and grace entirely in keeping with the Louis XV revival aesthetic. A cabinet of considerable decorative richness and elegant presence throughout.

UK Delivery

We offer FREE fully wrapped and insured two-man delivery across mainland UK. All items are handled carefully by our trusted in-house delivery team.

International Shipping

Worldwide shipping is available. We regularly arrange professional international delivery for clients across Europe, the USA, and beyond. Please enquire for a tailored quotation.

Packaging & Handling

  • Professionally wrapped and protected
  • Handled by experienced furniture specialists
  • Carefully transported to minimise movement and risk
  • Collection available by appointment

Condition Report

Excellent antique condition with minor age-related wear consistent with its period. The Vernis Martin panels, ormolu mounts, and original marble top all present well throughout. Structurally sound and ready for immediate placement.

Additional Notes

  • Original marble top retained and in good order
  • Vernis Martin panels present and displaying beautifully
  • Ormolu mounts intact and well-defined throughout
  • Structurally sound — ready for immediate placement

Dimensions


Height 161cm   Width 116cm   Depth 39cm

Three Generations of Expertise

Hawkins Antiques has specialised in fine antique furniture for over six decades, combining traditional knowledge with carefully selected stock.

Personally Selected Stock

Every piece is individually chosen for quality, character, craftsmanship, and decorative appeal - we do not mass-source inventory.

Honest Condition Reporting

We photograph and describe each item accurately, highlighting condition, restorations, age-related wear, and authenticity.

Specialist Delivery

Free UK mainland delivery is included, with international shipping arranged through specialist furniture and fine art carriers.

More from Hawkins Antiques

FOLLOW ALONG

From Our Instagram

Follow