in Régence style, manufactured by Maison MILLET in around 1890/1900 based on a model by CHARLES CRESSENT from around 1720/30, oakwood structure on slightly curved legs with bombé shaping on all sides, kingwood veneer in the form of geometrical patterns, marquetry panels, curved frieze, two drawers ‘sans traverse’, with applied bronze decor in the form of putti and floral branches, with figural cast bronze putti in full round at the upper corners each holding a bird in its raised hand, two moulded putti leaning on the branches, in the middle a bronze mount in the form of a fire bowl with flaming decor on both sides, moulded marble top, c. 94 x 146 x 64 cm, well-kept condition with evidence of restoration. (DOC)

The present item is subject to conservation legislation (ASB).

The present piece of furniture by the renowned MILLET company is modelled on the chest of drawers by CHARLES CRESSENT (1685-1768), which is preserved in "Waddesdon Manor" (former Rothschild property, now National Trust). Théodore MILLET founded his company in Paris in 1853. He specialised in the high-quality reproduction of furniture and bronzes from the 18th century. MILLET was one of the few cabinet-makers allowed to supply the Palace of Versailles, thus acting as purveyor to the court. His manufactory received various prizes - including a gold medal at the Paris World’s Fair in 1889 and the Grand Prix at the Paris World’s Fair in 1900.

Cf. Lit.:
Alexandre Pradère, French Furniture Makers, p. 136, ill. 98, Ste Nlle des Editions du Chène 1989 Waddesdon Manor: The Heritage of a Rothschild House, p. 107, Harry N. Abrams 2002 New York