Regency corner

Ebénisterie Mathieu Vath

Restoration of a Regency period corner cabinet veneered in Rio rosewood on a softwood frame. The piece had little damage apart from missing fluting and mahogany grafts on the top and bottom rails. The work therefore consisted of replacing the mahogany grafts with rosewood veneer that was sawn, scraped, and sanded before being glued with hot glue. The brass fluting was recreated and adjusted to fit perfectly into its original positions. A French polish finish was applied […]

Louis XV corner cabinet

Ebénisterie Mathieu Vath

Restoration of a Louis XV corner cabinet in marquetry of various woods: maple, hornbeam, boxwood, and holly. Apart from the green of the leaves, the colors of some of the flowers and ribbons have faded. The marquetry stands out against a rosewood background, framed by a boxwood border and a rosewood frieze. Finally, the solid oak frame is assembled with dovetail joints. Condition report: As the photos show, the varnish was heavily sun-faded. Furthermore, the glues used for the marquetry on the doors were severely dehydrated, and one piece was missing.

Corner cabinet in Boulle marquetry from the Napoleon III period

Ebénisterie Mathieu VATH

A classic restoration of Boulle marquetry: rehydration of the old glue by infiltration, creation and gluing of the missing brass fittings, and reconstruction of the base, which was in poor condition but not beyond repair. Finally, the bronzes were cleaned and a clear French polish was applied. Proof that appearances can be deceiving: even a badly damaged piece of furniture can regain its former beauty.