Liqueur cellar with Japanese decor and Baccarat glassware

This magnificent marquetry liqueur cellar boasts a delightful Japanese décor. The front of the cellar features an exquisite depiction of an ashy crane near reeds, with a delicate dragonfly in mother-of-pearl. The top of the cellar features another Japanese marquetry motif, depicting a heron holding a frog in its beak.
The use of different wood species, alternating between black and brown, elegantly frames these scenes, adding a touch of refinement.

This superb liqueur cellar, adorned with Japanese decorations, reflects a profound symbolism and is rooted in a specific 19th-century tradition.
The ashen crane is a symbol of longevity, peace and good fortune in Japan. Its presence on the liqueur cellar can be interpreted as an invitation to prosperity and longevity for those who gather to share liqueurs. It also evokes a sense of grace and elegance.
The heron is often associated with patience and contemplation in Japanese culture. The fact that it is holding a frog in its beak may represent a delicate balance between predator and prey, underlining the duality of nature. This scene can be interpreted as a meditation on the harmony of life.
Dragonflies are also highly symbolic in Japan. They are often associated with rebirth, transformation and inner strength. The mother-of-pearl dragonfly adds a touch of mystery and magic, evoking notions of change and metamorphosis.

When you open the cellar from the top, it brilliantly reveals four Baccarat liqueur decanters and sixteen Baccarat liqueur glasses. Although it doesn't bear the Baccarat signature, this is due to its age, pre-dating 1916, when the brand wasn't yet marking its glasses. It is important to note that the presence of such an inlaid model with a Japanese motif is extremely rare. This precious piece dates back to the 19th century and comes from a manor house in Burgundy with family links dating back to 1770.

Nineteenth-century liqueur cellars were highly prized pieces in Europe. They were used not only to store liqueurs, but also to display artistic know-how. They were generally designed to be objects of collection and conversation, symbols of the elegance and luxury of the period.
Japanese-style decor was fashionable during this period, thanks to the infatuation with Japanese art and culture, a phenomenon known as "Japonisme". Japanese motifs were perceived as exotic and added a touch of originality to objects of the period, such as this liqueur cellar.

Dimensions: 34cm x 26cm
Height : 28cm

Ref: 4CU80ORT5S