Exceptional French 19th Century Plaster Overdoor Bacchus Enfants

The reign of Napoleon III, often referred to as “The Second Empire”, featured an amalgamation of styles from previous regimes, ranging from the light and airy Rococo of Louis XV to the more stoic Neoclassical trophies of Louis XVI. Our painted giltwood overdoor from circa 1850 is in the vein of a Regence or Louis XV adaptation of the Napoleon III period. The piece is adorned with flowing motifs inspired by nature, such as the curled leaves, scalloped shell, and deep carvings seen on the overdoor. A main principle of Napoleon III furnishings was to utilize every inch available, as noted by the gadrooned leaf and rinceaux that emanate from behind the center medallion, forming a sprawling border. The medallion features an amazing high relief carving of a floral bouquet surrounded by curled leaves with scrolled tendrils and raised, asymmetrical panels. At the top is a scalloped shell, which is mimicked by a pair of parted leaves set at an angle in each of the upper corners. All of the carvings are presented in giltwood, which pairs nicely with the cream colored background that is enveloped in a quarter round molding (also gilded). The entire grouping is presented as a raised carving, with a thin board behind it that has tas de sable (sandpit) pilasters topped with block finials flanking the overdoor. Unique to most other antique overdoors...

A complete boiseries from the French country estate: "Chateau de Quatres Barbes." The antique 19th century French Louis XVI style grand oak paneled salon room...

A scarce antique Moorish architectural model thin bronze plaque from the late 19th century. This architectural model features a symmetrical design, the bronze frame having three sections, each panel with large traditional Moorish architecture rounded horseshoe - keyhole arch, flanked by xa pair of smaller pierced arches, finely detailed, decorated in intricate relief work, with light arabesque motif, Islamic calligraphy inscriptions, two large Star of David hexagrams, and notched saw toothed edge ornamentation. Provenance: From the highly curated contents of well regarded professional antique dealers, Ed and Jane Grant, who retired after four decades in the industry. The couple supplied both their Washington metro based antique shop, Grant Antiques, and their very fine quality Connecticut showcase, E.J. Grant Antiques, with domestic and imported pieces. World travelers who especially loved European antiques, sourced their merchandise during their frequent buying trips to Europe and Asia and included purchases originating in France, the British Isles, Italy, Spain, and beyond. "We have never been content with our established route. England is our first and favorite country and furniture. Then we discovered France. Then Holland and Belgium. On to Italy, Spain, then Scandinavia and later China. As always, bits and pieces from the U.S.," explains Jane in her memoirs of their 40 years as antiques dealers. Upon closing their antiques businesses (which were considered prominent sources for quality, diversity, and condition), the contents were carefully moved to a storage facility in Trumbull, CT awaiting the auction. It's always sad to see such a fine couple shut their doors after so many years in the industry, but we were honored to have the opportunity to find some truly beautiful pieces from such a respected and trusted source. Acquisition: Reputable auction house, Blackrock Galleries...

Fantastic 19th century Indian wall panel with two sets of shutter windows. Features a highly carved front with a blossom or starburst motif. On top a...

The Lartington hall carved Boiserie panels by Signor Anton Leone Bulletti. A highly important suite of eight carved and patinated wood panels commi...

This fabulous hand-carved boiseries or wooden panel was recently purchased from the Chateau St. Maclou in Normandy, France. Rooms of boiseries had design motifs that were kept the same throughout the entire area that was paneled. For instance, on this panel, there are mainly acanthus leaf motifs used in various areas. A medieval lion...