Relevant categories: Cabinets and Chests,French Boulle Furniture
(Above photo - Antique vitrine French cabinet )
A French vitrine is a form of the display cabinet that was first introduced in the 18th century. However, it wasn’t until the late 19th and early 20th centuries that these pieces of furniture became popular. As the Louis XV style became popular in England, furniture makers adopted some of the best elements of French display cabinets, including ormolu embellishments.
They were used to display various items, including art pieces, jewelry, and so on. Vitrines are great for use both in domestic and commercial settings. They were crafted intricately, which is why they have such a stunning look.
This article discusses some of the standout features of the French vitrine with the view of helping you make the best purchasing choice. Keep reading for more information:
(Above photo - Antique French vitrine in mahogany )
The French vitrine is made from woods such as walnut, mahogany, ebony, and rosewood, depending on what was available when making it. However, it consists of much more than just wood, with standard materials being glass, marble, and gilt bronze. The careful combination of some of the best materials makes it one of the best luxurious materials to have in your home.
(Above photo - Pair Louis XV Kingwood Display Cabinets Vitrine Bijouterie )
When making the French vitrine, the concerned artisans employed delicate skills that resulted in producing something beautiful. The display cabinet features frames with a glazed front and a central door. Further, it might have two smaller glass panels to either side. Artisans took care to create beautifully carved pieces of furniture great for any home.
(Above photo - French Display Cabinet Vernis Martin Painted Bijouterie 1900 )
French vitrines often featured the embellishments on the furniture prevailing at any given time. For example, the top frame could have intricate floral patterns of gilt bronze, creating something beautiful. Designers also embellished the ends of the wooden frames where glass panels came into contact with the wood. Floral patterns often found their way on the block feet of the cabinet, creating a contrast between the gilt bronze and the dark wooden frames.
Apart from the scrolling foliage and flowers in gilt bronze, the cabinets also had cool-veined marble tops. On the block feet, the patterns were those of acanthus feet.
(Above photo - French Empire Display Cabinet Vitrine Jewellery Case )
The French vitrine comes with a central door that opens to reveal glass shelves on the inside. On its own, the vitrine is an elegant piece of furniture that can create a focal point in any room. The vitrine is great for displaying large items like sculptures, works of art, flower vases, etc.
Furthermore, you can use them around your home to create beautiful accent colors and display keepsakes while making them blend in with the rest of the elements within your space. By integrating lighting, you will be able to emphasize the items displayed inside the cabinet. With that, you will ensure that your display cabinet is as functional as it is aesthetic.
If you are looking for a French vitrine to purchase, we have some of the best inside our store. By reaching to us online or in-store, you will get the opportunity to sample some of our finest pieces of furniture.
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