05/03/2026
Over twelve months ago we bought a ‘pile of pieces’ that had been buried away in a local store, forgotten for years. A lengthy reconstruction project followed and we’re delighted with the result, this wonderful eighteenth century Louis XVI fireplace of elegant and restrained design. Further research followed and we now believe the central gilt-bronze bas-relief which depicts an allegory of astronomy to be by Parisienne bronseur Etienne Martincourt. Keen observers will note the similarities between this and the panel on one of Jean Henri Riesener’s greatest masterpieces, the Jewel Cabinet made in 1787 for the Comtesse de Provence’s bedroom at Versailles. It was later sold at sale of George Watson-Taylor in 1825 to George IV for use at Windsor Castle, where the cabinet remains until this day.