Dressing table mirror. Dutch, 19th century.
Mahogany Marquetry inlaid dressing table mirror, centre floral surrounded by tulip flowers inlay, brass lining, mirror wilt function, front with one drawer.
In fair condition due to age and use, smaller restorations. Key enclosed.
Measurements: 60 x 44 x 24 cm.
In antiquity, marquetry decorations are inlays. This technique involves curving cavities in wood pieces to set in other wood essences or various materials like bone, ivory, horn, stone, etc, in order to play on contrasted colors
The Dutch were among the first to favour marquetry, parquetry and veneer over carved oak furniture. They were also using joined panelling by 1400, an important feature in making furniture lighter in construction. The beautiful linenfold decoration on panels was introduced shortly after this date.
The revolution in the art of veneering also originally came from the Netherlands and increased in popularity with the return of Charles II from The Hague in 1660. Accompanying the king to England were foreign craftsmen, artists, silversmiths, and designers. In 1660, highly trained craftsmen were sent to northern Italy and southern Germany from the Netherlands to teach apprentices new skills in carpentry, joinery and marquetry.