19th Century Paul Sormani Signed French Napoleon III Inlaid Glove Box

Description

A scarce very fine quality Napoleon III Period (1852-1870) gilt bronze ormolu mounted inlaid glove box by important Parisian ébéniste … more A scarce very fine quality Napoleon III Period (1852-1870) gilt bronze ormolu mounted inlaid glove box by important Parisian ébéniste Paul Sormani (1817-1877)

Exquisitely hand-crafted in France in the third quarter of the 19th century, featuring richly figured birdseye bois satiné kingwood banded ebony string decorated top with mother-of-pearl cartouche monogrammed L.P., rectangular hinged-lid chest form, opening to reveal the original blue silk-lined interior, brilliant doré bronze mounts and beaded trim ornamentation, rising on toupie feet.

Signed on the lock plate, P. SORMANI, 114 Rue du Temple, PARIS

Dimensions: (approx)
4.25" High, 12.5" Wide, 5" Deep, 2.5 lbs

Paul Sormani:
When it comes to fine “meubles de luxe” or luxury furniture, there are few cabinet makers that truly stand out. However, a number of exceptional “Ebenistes” in the nineteenth century stand above the rest for their remarkable skill and versatility in styles, none more than Paul Sormani! Born in Venice in 1817, Sormani would eventually move to Paris in 1847 and become the preeminent Napoleon III period cabinet maker. He was noted for his specialized furniture reproductions in the styles of the Louis XIV, Louis the XV, and Louis XVI eras of the previous centuries, appealing to eighteenth century nostalgics.

Sormani won numerous medals and exhibited in Paris six times and once in London. The catalogue for the 1867 Universal Exposition described his work as one with “une qualité d’exécution de tout premier ordre” or as one with having “a quality of execution of the first order.” Though his work emulated that of bygone craftsmen, his skill far surpassed those that had come before. The nineteenth century saw a reintroduction of many former styles in furniture that were predominant under the kings of the old regime.

Sormani wanted his work to recall the ancient traditional knowledge of artisans past with an emphasis on attention to detail, inventiveness, excellence, and a taste for beauty and luxury. Sormani fashioned works of art that came in many forms, from jewel caskets, table boxes, writing desks, and commodes to mirrors, and many smaller precious objects. His works included exotic inlays and veneers in rare woods, finely chiseled gilded bronze decorations, as well as Boulle style pieces inlaid with tortoise shell.

Under the patronage of the Empress Eugenie, wife of Emperor Napoleon III, Sormani became immensely popular with the discerning European aristocracy, going on to decorate the palaces of the French Imperial family. Sormani was a global sensation after the 1862 Universal Exhibition in London, and the esteem that followed the name Sormani would continue after his death in 1877. Owning a signed Sormani piece became a status symbol. Leaving his business to his wife, Ursula-Marie-Philippine Bouvaist, and son, Paul-Charles after his death, the furniture firm he created continued his quality and style to perfection. Pieces created after this time were then signed Veuve Sormani or Veuve Sormani et Fils (the widow Sormani and sons). The firm thrived for more than ninety years, closing in 1934 after the death of Paul Charles.

Condition:
A superb example, museum exhibition quality, in excellent original antique condition. Presents splendidly with beautifully aged patina. Original key not included. May have minor wear consistent with age and use. Delivered cleaned, waxed, with hand rubbed polished French patina finish, ready for immediate use and generational enjoyment! less