#7219 • $27,000 Italian Baroque-Style Marquetry Bureau Bookcase, Bergamo Workshop, Bombe Secretary with Display Cabinet, Exotic Wood Floral Inlay

Part of $5 Million Manhattan Fine Rug Gallery Closure, Online Auction (live auction by Prime Auction Solutions)

High bid $4,750.00

Status: No sale

This extraordinary Italian bureau bookcase represents a rare opportunity to acquire a masterwork of traditional marquetry craftsmanship from a now-closed artisan workshop outside Bergamo. With the closure of this small, specialized atelier, pieces of this caliber and provenance have become increasingly prized among collectors who recognize the irreplaceable nature of such handcrafted excellence. Standing an impressive 95 inches tall and measuring 56 inches wide by 26 inches deep, this substantial two-part piece showcases the highest quality construction and meticulous attention to detail that defined the Bergamo workshop's reputation. The elaborate floral and foliate marquetry—executed in exotic woods of varying tones and grains—covers every visible surface, preserving centuries-old Italian inlay techniques that are becoming increasingly rare in the modern era. The upper section features a dramatic double-bonnet pediment with graceful serpentine curves, surmounting a glazed display cabinet with two arched glass doors divided by mullions. The interior is fitted with glass shelves and lined with elegant damask fabric, creating an ideal showcase for fine porcelain, silver, or collectibles. Masterfully rendered marquetry depicting tulips, roses, acanthus leaves, and scrolling vines frames each glass panel and adorns the bonnet, demonstrating the workshop's exceptional skill in creating naturalistic botanical compositions. The lower section presents a classic bombe form with a slant-front fall that opens to reveal a fully fitted interior featuring multiple pigeonholes, small drawers flanked by turned columns, and a central cupboard—all adorned with matching marquetry of the same exceptional quality. Below the writing surface, two short drawers over two long drawers provide ample storage, each drawer front displaying symmetrical floral marquetry compositions accented by decorative Rococo-style brass bail handles. The entire case is veneered in richly figured walnut and burl wood, with carefully selected exotic woods in contrasting tones used to create the intricate inlay patterns. The piece rests on boldly carved claw-and-ball feet, adding a sculptural dimension to the sweeping bombe silhouette. Notably, the sides feature equally elaborate full floral marquetry panels, confirming this piece was crafted to be admired from all angles—a hallmark of the workshop's commitment to uncompromising quality. A tour de force of Italian cabinetmaking tradition, this bureau bookcase represents both a functional treasure and a tangible connection to artisan techniques now lost with the workshop's closure. An exceptional acquisition for the discerning collector of fine European furniture. Dimensions: 56" W x 26" D x 95" H