Late 19th Century French Louis XVI Oak and Marble Buffet by Haentges Freres
An exceptional late 19th-century French Louis XVI style buffet by Parisian cabinetmakers Haentgés Frères, sourced in Paris, France. Crafted in oak with finely executed geometric parquetry, decorative gilt-bronze mounts, and a richly veined Breccia Medicea (Calacatta Viola) marble top, this elegant buffet reflects the refined craftsmanship of the period. The architectural façade features two paneled doors displaying intricate cube-pattern parquetry that creates a striking three-dimensional effect. The rounded front corners are decorated with vertical fluting, complemented by gilt-bronze floral mounts, laurel-wreath drawer pulls, and elegant escutcheons. The buffet rests on turned and fluted front legs finished with gilt-bronze sabots. A beautifully figured, 1 1/4-inch-thick Breccia Medicea (Calacatta Viola) marble top crowns the piece, displaying a dramatic composition of soft ivory, blush pink, warm terracotta, burgundy, and sage-green veining, with gently rounded corners and a molded edge. The interior offers generous storage behind two paneled doors, with a wooden shelf dividing the cabinet space. Two drawers run across the upper section, featuring traditional dovetail joinery that reflects the quality of the cabinetmaking. A decorative key is included; the locks are not operational. The buffet bears the original Haentgés Frères manufacturer's metal plaque, identifying the Parisian firm at 6 Rue Titon, known for its cabinetmaking and decorative bronze work. The piece has been structurally revised and refinished, preserving the warmth and character of the oak while highlighting its intricate parquetry and architectural detailing. The marble top retains visible signs of age and use, including surface scratches, fine lines, and minor edge wear.
- Origin: Paris, France
- Period: Late 19th Century
- Materials: Oak, Breccia Medicea Marble (Calacatta Viola), Brass
- Dimensions: W 47.5" x D 20" x H 40.38"
- Condition: Structurally revised and refinished. Solid and stable, with signs of wear consistent with age. Marble displays surface scratches, fine lines, and minor edge wear, as pictured. Decorative key included; locks are not operational.