Pair of European varnish corner blocks stamped Foureau

Pair of corner pieces in Martin Varnish or European Varnish in imitation of Chinese lacquer.

These original corner pieces, decorated with gold powder on a black background, feature idyllic landscapes with Far Eastern architecture, water-carrying figures busy with their activities or playing Asian strategy games in their traditional costumes.

The uprights and crosspieces are adorned with elegant foliage and flower scrolls. The curved legs are adorned with small asymmetrical bronzes. This rare pair of corner cupboards, a privilege of aristocratic 18th-century families, is topped with Aleppo Breche marble. The leaves open, one to the right, the other to the left, to reveal an interior with two small shelves.

Both corners are stamped with "L. FOUREAU" and the Jurande mark. Louis Foureau practiced for almost thirty years in the Faubourg Saint Denis, becoming a Master cabinetmaker in 1755. Foureau specialized in furniture with Chinese-style varnish decoration, such as our pair of corner pieces. The latter is particularly representative of Foureau's style and high-quality production, as it is devoid of bronze overlay in order to concentrate on the lacquer decoration, as seen notably on the uprights and apron. We also note the simplicity and purity of line that Foureau particularly sought. Foureau's work is exhibited in a number of museums, including the Musée Carnavalet in Paris and the Musée Carnavalet in Reims.

Transition period, 18th century. Two small later clogs.

Height : 89 cm
Width : 68 cm
Depth of sides : 49 cm

Ref: DUPVPIC73T