Antique French Napoleon III Marquetry "Cave à Liqueur" Liquor Cabinet, c. 1860-1880.
 
19th-century French Napoleon III period Cave à Liqueur (tantalus or liquor cellarette). Crafted with a beautiful rosewood veneer, the serpentine-front case features elegant Boulle-style marquetry on the lid and front, including delicate mother-of-pearl flowers and brass wire leaf inlays. The hinged lid and side panels swing open to reveal the fitted interior.
Included are four (4) period-correct square crystal decanters decorated with hand-painted gold enamel floral motifs, along with (7) matching footed cordial glasses. The exterior wood cabinet and veneer show a wonderful, original aged patina with light surface wear, minor scratches, and age-related checking consistent with 150+ years of use. There are minor losses to the fine brass wire inlay border on the lid. No key is included. Glassware shows light gilt wear but no chips or cracks. 5 cordial glasses are missing.