Joseph Cattaneo Furniture

A one-of-a-kind French Napoleon III-period game table with exceptional straw work marquetry throughout. Cabinet covered almost entirely inside and out with tens of thousands of pieces of intricately applied pieces of natural and dyed straw. Hinged top inlaid with an oval town and seascape medallion with the legend “Les Environs de Bayonne” (“The Surroundings of Bayonne”). Additional scenes of French life and elaborate flora designs decorate the front, back, and sides. Brass wreath escutcheon plate frames lock with included key. Opens to reveal a brilliant blue silk lined lid embellished with striking heraldic vignettes with a Christian motif. Interior fitted with multiple puzzle-like compartments, drawers, and containers, some of which are concealed under a pair of beautifully realized depictions of floral arrangements. Signed in French “Joseph Cattaneo il fit” (roughly, “Made by Joseph Cattaneo”) on main removable compartment. Underneath the cabinet is a pull-out chess or checkers board with diminutive red & white carved bone chess pieces...