Boulle cabinets, sideboards and credenza

An Italian term describing a buffet or sideboard containing shelves enclosed by cupboard doors. The word has a particular meaning in the Australian and British market, referring to an ornate Victorian drawing room cabinet, either with or without a mirrored back in a carved Rococo frame. The base may have either a white marble top or a timber top, and below there may be mirrored doors. The distinguishing feature is the shape of the piece, with the two sides either rounded, or running at an angle towards the front and fitted with doors in section resembling half a hexagon. Commonly more... found in burr walnut or mahogany, and frequently inlaid. In current everyday usage, a credenza refers to a storage cabinet at the side or behind an office desk. less...

Boulle (pronounced "bool") refers to a type of decorative furniture that was popular in France during the 17th and 18th centuries. The term "boulle" is derived from the French cabinetmaker André-Charles Boulle, who perfected the technique and popularized the style in the late 17th century.

Boulle furniture is characterized by its intricate inlay work, which typically features designs made from brass or copper on a black lacquer background. The inlay designs can be quite elaborate and often depict intricate floral or architectural motifs. The technique involves inlaying thin sheets of metal, such as brass, into a wooden substrate such more... as ebony. Boulle furniture can range from desks, tables, cabinets, commodes and many other types of furniture.

The Boulle technique was used primarily for luxury items and was commissioned by the French Royalty, nobles, and wealthy individuals. Boulle furniture is highly prized for its skillful craftsmanship and intricate designs, and it is still highly sought after today by collectors and enthusiasts of antique furniture.

Boulle work, is not only limited to furniture, it can be found on boxes, mirrors, and clocks, and it also influenced the decorative arts in general. The style had a certain level of prestige and luxury attached to it, and it was considered a symbol of wealth and taste during the time. less...