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Museum Quality Portuguese Dressing Cabinet with Original Portrait Miniature

$25,315.35
£18,558.28
€21,250VAT Included
CA$34,870.62
A$35,322.10
CHF 20,281.21
MX$428,269.85
NOK 235,337.46
SEK 239,546.47
DKK 162,043.54

About the Item

Portugal, circa 1790–1810 Dimensions: 210 × 98 × 60 cm An exceptional Portuguese dressing cabinet of monumental proportions and extraordinary craftsmanship, dating from approximately 1790–1810. Created as a bespoke commission for a distinguished member of the Portuguese aristocracy, this remarkable piece is unique in both conception and execution, representing the highest level of Portuguese cabinetmaking at the turn of the nineteenth century. Its architectural form is enriched by one of the most elaborate marquetry schemes encountered in Portuguese furniture of the period. The spectacular decoration is composed of an extraordinarily complex geometric design inspired by the rich ornamental vocabulary inherited from Islamic and Moorish art. Every geometric motif is meticulously outlined with fine boxwood stringing, creating a striking interplay of light, shadow and contrast that demonstrates the extraordinary skill of the cabinetmaker. Further enhancing its luxurious appearance, the mouldings, edges and exposed corners retain their original gilding in gold leaf, adding refinement and emphasizing the cabinet's elegant architectural silhouette. The central mirror preserves its original painted portrait miniature on copper, an exceptionally rare survival. Conceived as an integral part of the cabinet, the miniature portrays an elegant Portuguese noblewoman adorned with magnificent pearl necklaces and impressive emerald jewels, unmistakable symbols of wealth, prestige and aristocratic rank. The preservation of this original miniature greatly enhances both the historical significance and the individuality of the cabinet. The sculptural legs terminate in finely carved human heads, an unusual and highly distinctive feature recalling the celebrated Indo-Portuguese furniture produced in Goa, where European forms merged with Indian carving traditions. The cabinet was never intended as a standard workshop production but as a unique, personalized object commissioned by a member of Portugal's highest social circles. Its monumental scale, remarkable originality, exceptional marquetry, original portrait miniature, refined gilding and rare Indo-Portuguese sculptural details place it among the finest examples of Portuguese aristocratic furniture of its period. The piece has benefited from a few discreet old restorations, entirely consistent with its age and carried out to a high standard. These interventions do not detract from its authenticity, beauty or historical importance. A true collector's piece and an outstanding example of Portuguese decorative arts, equally suited to an important private collection, a historic interior or a museum-quality setting.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 82.68 in (210 cm)Width: 38.59 in (98 cm)Depth: 23.23 in (59 cm)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Period:
    1790-1799
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1790
  • Condition:
  • Seller Location:
    Madrid, ES
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU5779251128632

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