An Early 19th Century Regency Period Wine Cooler

A fine early 19th century mahogany and ebonised wine cooler in the Classical taste, of sarcophagus form, retaining the original liner, the panelled front with a carved lion mask in the manner of Thomas Hope, the panelled sides with gilt brass handles, all raised upon carved lion paw feet.

The strong Bacchic connotation of this wine cooler is ever present in the reoccurring lion’s theme. This rich, dark object not only bears the heads of the animal on either side, but incorporates large, realistically carved lion’s paws as stands. Bacchic themed furniture has historically been crafted for rooms associated with eating, drinking and entertaining. The symmetry, heaviness and architectural panelling of this piece are typical of the period in which it was created.