An Italian pen engraved ivory inlaid ebony and marquetry cabinet on stand, in the manner of Ferdinando Pogliani, Milan third quarter 19th century

the interior with a door opening to reveal twenty-one drawers, the removable columns at each end concealing six separate drawers, with a further thirteen drawers, the cabinet veneered on back to form a centrepiece, the whole decorated with mythological scenes

In very good conserved condition. There are some hairline cracks commensurate with age but these do not detract from the piece and some cracks generally in marquetry, as visible from photograph. The iron stretchers have been regilt. The quality of marquetry and engraving is very good. In overall very good condition.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

This cabinet is a fine example of the fashion for pieces reflecting an interest in the Renaissance period. It recreates something of the grandeur of the period and was no doubt intended for an interior richly decorated and hung with tapestries; a cabinet of curiosities. The Arms on the cabinet are the Royal Arms of Spain as they were used in the 16^th and 17^th centuries, intended to enhance this mood of opulence.
Ferdinando Pogliani (active 1860's and 1870's) worked with his sons Paolo and Carlo in his workshop in Borgo di Porta, Vittoria N.81, Milan.

He later had a showroom in the elegant Via Monte Napoleone and won prizes in several leading Exhibitions and became one of the city's leading cabinet-makers and his entry in the encyclopaedic history of Milan reads; ...`much sought after and very expensive is ivory and ebony inlaid furniture. In this field Pogliani excels with his perfect technique which was very much admired at the exhibition in 1881.' He specialised in the manufacture of large architecturally inspired pieces of furniture made from ebony inlaid with ivory, tortoiseshell and pietre dure with gilt-mounts. The subject matter included amorini, flowers and mythological subjects and animals.
A related cabinet on stand by Pogliani was sold as lot 272, in these Rooms, 4^th November 1988.