walnut chest of drawers by L. GENIN (Marseille). Circa 1900.

Magnificent chest of drawers in solid walnut and walnut veneer by the cabinetmaker L. GENIN, then located on Place du 4 Septembre in Marseille, as indicated by the stamp applied twice beneath the thick red St. Pons marble top. GENIN would later open shops in Valence and Lyon. It has been completely restored. A high-end piece of craftsmanship from the very beginning of the last century (or late 19th century), made according to the highest standards of the craft, with very fine dovetail joints and hand-carved decorations in the wood (particularly on the two front legs). It boasts a superb patina, both luminous and rich, and opens with four large drawers. The top drawer breaks the monotony of the design with a central medallion and two gilt drawer pulls that differ from the others. The locks are missing, except for the last one, but the key is not present. The handles are in gilt bronze, highly ornate, and offer a very elegant contrast with the wood. The bottom drawer opens along the entire length of the cabinet, pulling the lower plinth with it in a pleasing trompe-l'oeil effect. The sides are made of solid wood and paneled. The beautiful molding work highlights the different sections of the piece and curves at its rounded corners. The marble top is also very thick, beautifully framed with moldings. It has a few small chips on one side (see photo), but they are barely noticeable and it shows no signs of weakness. To be honest, I can't tell if it's a restoration or simply wear and tear on the stone. In any case, it's hardly noticeable. It is engraved LG4 underneath, LG for L. GENIN, of course. The 4 refers to the joinery. Moreover, the same inscription is found on the wood of the cabinet. Serious, meticulous work, resulting in a superb piece. It comes from a beautiful home in Le Vésinet (78). L: 116 cm. D: 53 cm. H: 99 cm. The price is firm, thank you. Delivery possible in the Île-de-France region and the DRC.