Empire bookcase with safe deposit box

Dimensions: H x W x D: 227 x 154 x 49 cm

Description:
Impressive Empire centrepiece with neatly laid Cuban mahogany and fine gilded fittings.

The substructure, standing on a plinth, consists of two tiers, one above the other, each with three doors. The impressive fittings are positioned in the centre of the doors.
On the outer doors we see lyres framed by cornucopias, foliage and tendrils. The strings of the lyres are partially movable and conceal the keyholes behind them. On the central doors we see laurel branches with moving flowers. If we move the flowers a little to the left, the keyhole behind them is revealed.
The interior is divided by shelves and could have been used to store papers and office utensils.

A highlight of the piece of furniture is its metal-lined safe compartment with its triple-locking bar lock. The lock is stamped with the name of the manufacturer "FICHET A PARIS" as well as a crown and the number 13734.

The glazed top of the cabinet has three doors and was probably intended for storing and displaying books.
The fittings in the cornice correspond with those of the base.

Furniture of comparable quality and appearance is known by Pierre-Benuit Marcion (1769-1840) and Bernard Molitor (1755-1833), among others. The latter also used the same patents to hide the keyholes. However, no signature was found on this piece of furniture.

Condition: Refurbished, suitable for everyday use and polished with shellac.

Price:
This piece of furniture has already been sold. Comparable objects in terms of age, quality and condition are priced at around €12,000 to €15,000.