Boulle marquetry side cabinet stamped “Befort Jeune”, Napoleon III period

fine ceremonial cabinet by the house of Befort, in Boulle marquetry of brass and pewter on an ebony veneer ground. This cabinet displays the well-known signature features of this cabinetmaker, with its crozier-shaped spandrels and its marquetry incorporating Greek key friezes. The central medallion is original, depicting a seated Roman warrior surrounded by leafy, flowered volutes set within Greek key friezes.
The decoration is inlaid with fillets and framed reserves. Fine gilt bronze ornamentation, with upper chutes in the form of espagnolettes and lower chutes of acanthus leaves.
Mahogany interior with shelf, white Carrara marble top