This exquisite French library cabinet, crafted in the early 19th century, is an exceptional work by the renowned artist Emmanuel Zwiener. Originally commissioned for the Royal Palace in Paris, this masterpiece was owned by King/President Charles de Gaulle, the ruler of France at the time. Materials & Craftsmanship Wood: Made from premium Mahogany and Roman Beechwood, with a Mahogany and Macore veneer finish. Bronze Work: Adorned with 99.9% pure brass, free from any impurities or additional metals. Marble: Features a distinguished high-quality marble top, adding to its elegance and grandeur. Dimensions Width: 233 cm Height: 205 cm Depth: 55 cm Historical Significance This cabinet exemplifies Zwiener’s signature style, with exquisite hand-carved details and luxurious materials. Created at the height of 19th-century French craftsmanship, it remains a testament to the grandeur of royal furniture design.
Dimensions Width: 233 cm Height: 205 cm Depth: 55 cm
Hello Wail,
Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.
Joseph-Emmanuel Zweiner (1849-1895) was born in Germany and became one of the premier French cabinetmakers working in Paris in the late 19th Century, Alongside contemporaries like Paul Sormani (1817-1877), Alfred-Emmanuel Beurdeley (1847-1919) , Henry Dasson (1825-1896), and François Linke (1855–1946), their furniture - made in the Louis XV and Louis XVI styles - enjoyed immense popularity that continues to this day.
Zwiener library vitrines do not come along very often; the closest comparable examples I could find are inferior comparisons and have sold for prices ranging from $40,000 to $130,000. Without including the provenance, an auction estimate of USD $150,000-250,000 would be justified.
If the provenance and original commission for the royal palace and ownership by DeGaulle could be confirmed through documentation, an appropriate auction estimate would be USD$300,000-500,000
Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:
An antique Louis XVI style ormolu mounted kingwood and mahogany marquetry and parquetry veneered marble-top library vitrine.
made by Joseph-Emmanuel Zweiner (1849-1895), Paris, circa 1880-1890
The marquetry and parquetry case surmounted by verde antique marble slabs, the case fitted with inset hinged grilled cabinet doors opening to a shelved interior flanked by outset tall cabinet doors, all raised on short gilt toupie feet; with ormolu mounts throughout. Stamped ZWIENER.
205 cm (80-3/4 inches) high, 233 cm (91-3/4 inches) wide, 55 cm (21-5/8 inches) deep
CONDITION: This cabinet appears to be in very good condition
PROVENANCE: Acquired from a dealer or gallery. Reported to have been originally commissioned for the Royal Palace in Paris and owned by King/President Charles de Gaulle (1890-1970, r 1959-1969).
$ 150,000-250,000*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.
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~ Delia
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