Of exceptional design and quality, this pair of cabinets showcases the finest work by Mathieu Béfort (1813-1880), a renowned 19th century cabinetmaker. Also known as Béfort Jeune, Mathieu descended from a family of very skilled cabinetmakers, with his father Jean-Baptiste Béfort (1783-1840) supplying furniture to the French royalty. The Béfort family specialised in the use of bronze and hardstone as beautifully exemplified by this outstanding pair of cabinets. In 1844, the firm received a medal at the Exposition Des Produits de L’industrie Francaise, solidifying its importance.
Topping this impressive pair is a red marble top, with delicate Sienna marble edging - an unusual feature for pieces of this kind, underscoring their exceptional quality. Below is an ormolu reel-and-bead frieze as well as a more prominent acanthus leaf frieze. The upper rectangular black marble panel is adorned with vibrant pietra dura inlays, forming ribbon-tied branches of cherries and pears, framed by an intricate ormolu border. A push of a hidden button moves the panel forward, revealing a drawer. Flanking this panel are two smaller ones with similar hardstone designs. The pietra dura inlay is particularly impressive due to its protruding, 3D effect. Imposing ormolu busts adorn the uprights.
The large central doors feature black marble panels set into ebonized wood, profusely decorated with polychrome hardstone inlays showcasing nature-inspired compositions. At the centre, a cherry tree is depicted, with a bird charmingly perched on one of its branches. The outer design consists of several ribbon-tied fruit branches separated by four butterflies. Ormolu borders as well as inlaid brass bands accentuate the complex hardstone designs. With a twist of a key, the door opens to reveal a spacious storage space with one shelf.
The sides are decorated with prominent ormolu mounts. The larger rectangular panels feature cherubs, each holding objects relating to various interests such as the arts and music. The bottom frieze is lavishly adorned with an ormolu bust flanked by acanthus inspired motifs with further mounts on the upright pilasters. All are framed by inlaid brass banding. Four ebonised wood and ormolu feet support each cabinet. When placed together, the pair reveals a desirable feature: they are mirror images of each other.
The reverse of the bronze mounts is stamped ‘BEF’.
This pair of cabinets showcases Béfort’s incredible skills and would be a magnificent addition to one’s interior space.
