Lot 410: A Victorian Aesthetic period ebonised and polychrome decorated vitrine/side cabinet

attributable to Daniel Cottier, the rectangular top above slanting glazed lift-up panel doors and a pair of panel doors decorated with classical figures above a pair of frieze drawers and open bookshelves, all flanked by moulded uprights, on turned feet, the sides with parcel gilt stylised panels, further classical figures and small cupboard doors, 110cm wide

The incised decoration on the above cabinet mirrors that on other pieces previously attributed to E.W Godwin but which are now thought to be by Daniel Cottier (1838-1891). A side table with related decoration is illustrated in S. Weber Soros, The Secular Furniture of E.W Godwin, Yale 1999, pl.501. A side cabinet again with similar decoration is illustrated in J.Cooper, Victorian and Edwardian Furniture and Interiors, London 1987, pl.343. The Greek inspired decoration was a feature of Cottier's Godwin inspired furniture.

Cottier was initially apprenticed to a stained glass maker and established his own studio in 1864. In 1869 he established Cottier & Company, Art Furniture Makers, Glass and Tile Painters in London. The celebrated designer Bruce Talbert was amongst the partners in the firm. Cottier established further offices in New York and Melbourne with the New York outlet continuing to trade until 1915.