Opstelling van een pronkkast en een tafel in het Bayerisches Nationalmuseum te München 1876

This photograph shows a display of a cabinet and table, made of ebony and inlay, as shown at the German Exhibition in Munich in 1876. Ebony, prized for its dense, dark grain, has long been associated with luxury. Sourced from tropical regions and requiring skilled craftsmanship, it immediately signals wealth and refinement. The meticulous inlay work, precise joinery, and polished surfaces all indicate a substantial investment of time and skill. Note the contrasting light inlays against the dark ebony, creating intricate patterns. The cabinet features detailed carvings of classical figures, further enhancing its preciousness. These are not simply functional pieces of furniture; they are displays of status. They were conceived to impress viewers with the owner’s wealth and refined taste. Ultimately, we can understand this display of craftsmanship and material as a reflection of the social hierarchies and aspirations of 19th-century society.