Featuring elements in the style of both Louis XIV and Louis XV, this buffet vitrine is from Liege, Belgium. Hand-carved circa 1900, the wood has been bleached more recently, giving the vitrine a light oak honey color with fascinating visible grains.

The shaped top has ogee molding (slightly protruding in the front) and canted corners that align above slender glass panels. Both panes are surrounded by elongated moldings that crest in the form of an attenuated leaf. An identical carving can be seen above the glassed mullion that separates the two rectangular doors (fronting two full-length shelves), each with a shaped pane of glass encircled by a prominent molding with a foliate rinceau. Above each door is a drawer with a pierced, shaped keyplate set within an arabesque molding of scalloped shells, scrolls, and volutes. Once again, a central mullion separates the two compartments, adorned with a foliate niche (a larger form of this niche appears beneath each of the canted corners of the top). The drawers and doors are separated by a thick molding that mirrors the edges of the top, with a similar molding at the top of the sinuous apron and thick, stylized block feet. A raised central curled leaf cartouche graces the front of the apron, continuing the foliate and shell theme.

Standing at over 41 inches tall, with carvings and style typical of furniture from Liege Belgium,  this type of cabinet is sometimes called a bibliotheque bas(se) or a low bibliotheque. Our antique oak and glass buffet vitrine would make a splendid bookcase for a library, office, or living room.

CONDITION: Very good antique condition with light age separations and rubs. The wood has been bleached more recently. One key operates both doors, while each drawer has its own key (all locks functional).