Subscribe to Fine Woodworking Magazine

Louis XV Breakfront Buffet

comments (3) September 21st, 2009 in Reader's Gallery     
Diviner Diviner, member
thumbs up 37 users recommend
There are 8 full panels, 4 family members, and over 20 birds.
This parquetry pattern was copied from a rolltop desk built by John-Henri Riesener. The composition ornament is Rococo in style (Louis XV). The boy shoots his dart gun at the bird in the center panel.
Birds, ribbons, and music motifs very common during Louis XV decorative furniture. Here, the bird tears apart the family crest, and is having a struggle with the little girl in the panel to the right. Note the dart in the upper right. A miss from the dart gun.
These birds were copied from masterworks during the period.
I manage to grab one of the culprits before he flies away. The marquetry scrollwork on the frieze was found at Sun Valley ski resort conference center. I havent seen this pattern in any books, but scrolls were very dominate in all Ebinistes pieces throughout the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries.
There are 8 full panels, 4 family members, and over 20 birds.

There are 8 full panels, 4 family members, and over 20 birds.
Add CommentAdd Comment
PrintPrint

French Louis XV Breakfont buffets were very popular during the 1700's. As the name implies, the middle section is extended outwards. This project is my all time favorite as it combines period styling and ornament as well as making it current with a storyline of family members protecting their heirloom from Alfred Hitchcock like birds of prey.


Design or Plan used: My own design - Gregg Novosad (clickdivine.com)
posted in: Reader's Gallery
Add CommentAdd Comment PrintPrint
Back to List

Comments (3)

LorRedda LorRedda writes: Aside from the fantastic skills to do this work, the humor and personal touches were courageous and appreciated!
Posted: 9:19 am on October 7th

jddb jddb writes: An extraordinary work, The marketry is not only very well executed, but exquisitely designed. It blends quite tenderly with the strong nature of the furniture, and that’s a very difficult thing to achieve
Posted: 4:12 pm on October 4th

Sandtazam Sandtazam writes: I'm speechless. You sir, have skills beyond imagination. Absolutely amazing.
Posted: 3:53 pm on September 22nd

You must be logged in to post comments. Click here to login.