An Ormolu-Mounted Mahogany and Rosewood Parquetry Side Cabinet

By C. Charmois & Le Marinier for Potheau Frères, circa 1880

Stamped on the reverse C. CHARMOIS & LE MARINIER EBENISTERIE,
21Faub. S. Antoine. PARIS, AMEUBLEMENT, POTHEAU Frères Srs

30 in (96.5 cm) high, 26 in (66 cm) wide, 14 ½ in (36.9 cm) deep

The firm of Charmois and Le Marinier, based in 21 Faub. Saint-Antoine in Paris, was a regular exhibitor at the international exhibitions of the XIX century. Its ormolu-mounted furniture was highlighted in the Paris exhibitions in 1855 and 1867. The Art Journal of 1867 notes the firm for its craftsmen's skills in using combination of different materials: 'Of such questionable compounds of heterogeneous materials Messrs. CHARMOIS and LEMARINIER exhibit marked examples. The same firm also produces a capital cabinet which, for colour and execution, is exquisite as a gem. The diaper pattern, wrought in tarsia, is forced up by ormolu, not overloaded.' (Art Journal 1867, p. 212).