US$5,288.86 This is an antique French Napoleon III ebonised and ormolu mounted, abalone, brass and mother of pearl pier cabinet circa 1860. This beautiful cabinet is of bow fronted form and is profusely inlaid with flower-filled urns, birds, ribbon-tied garlands and scrolling acanthus. The panelled door enclosing a bird's eye maple interior with two shelves flanked by two fluted baluster turned columns with ormolu capitelli. The cabinet is surmounted with a striking 'Nero Portoro' marble top and rests on a plinth base terminating in elegant toupie feet. With working lock and original key. It is an absolutely unique piece which would look amazing wherever it is placed. Condition: In excellent condition having been beautifully restored in our workshops, please see photos for confirmation. Dimensions in cm: Height 116 x Width 86 x Depth 45 Dimensions in inches: Height 3 feet, 10 inches x Width 2 feet, 10 inches x Depth 1 foot, 6 inches Abalone is a common name for any of a group of small to very large edible sea snails. The shell of the abalone is exceptionally strong and is made of microscopic calcium carbonate tiles stacked like bricks. The inner shell is an iridescent swirl of intense colours, ranging from deep cobalt blue and peacock green to purples, creams and pinks. Therefore each pearl, natural or cultured, will have its own unique collage of colours. The highly iridescent inner nacre layer of the shell of abalone has traditionally been used as a decorative item, in jewellery, buttons, and as inlay in furniture and in musical instruments such as guitars, etc. Mother of pearl, is an organic-inorganic composite material produced by some molluscs as an inner shell layer; it is also what makes up the outer coating of pearls. It is strong, resilient, and iridescent. The outer layer...