Cabinet

One of the longest pieces of furniture in the whole field of Parisian cabinetmaking during the 1700s, this example is actually made up of three separate cabinets placed end to end and fixed together with bolts. The original purpose of this unique object is not clear. Since the interior contains shelves that can be adjusted to varying heights, the joined cabinets may have been used to store books in addition to drawings, prints, maps, or plans, rolled or flat. Three long drawers with separate locks, possibly used for storing larger sheets, run along the base.The cabinet is attributed to Bernard II van Risenburgh, one of the most important Parisian cabinetmakers of the mid 1700s, based on the style of the gilt-bronze mounts. Some of the mounts are of the same model as those found on other pieces of furniture known to be by this maker.