Parlor Cabinet, 1860–70
Attributed to Alexander Roux
(American, active 1847–1881)
New York, New York
Wood with inlays, porcelain, gilding, and gilt metal
Bequest of Mary Jane Rayniak, in memory of
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph G. Rayniak  M1985.58

Urns, ca. 1770
China
Porcelain
Lent by the Chipstone Foundation 1954.9, 1-2

Attributed to Josiah Wedgwood
(Staffordshire, England, begun 1759)
The Three Graces, ca. 1855
Parian Museum Purchase M2001.98

A wearisome exhibition of well-educated imbecility
  —John Ruskin, 1851–53

Monumental sideboards and cabinets like the example seen here brought the sophistication of the Italian Renaissance into American homes in the late nineteenth century. The delicate vase and vines depicted in toned wood in the central marquetry panel were based on designs from ancient Roman frescoes. Also inspired by the art of antiquity were the architectural columns, capitals, and circular plaques enameled with romanticized images of angels.