17th Century English Cabinet

17th century ENGLISH CABINET 17th century ENGLISH CABINET called "Oyster shell" in walnut and olive veneer in end grain, and floral marquetry attributed to Thomas PISTOR. Rich native wood marquetry decorated with flowering cornucopias framing vases and birds. The name oyster shell given to the cabinet comes from the end grain marquetry present on the entire piece of furniture, the end grain slices are graphically similar to oyster shells, hence this typically English expression of oyster shell to designate standing wood. The front has 2 doors which reveal a set of 14 drawers also inlaid with bouquets and a very pretty box in the center below a small door revealing a niche entirely inlaid with three drawers at the bottom. Some drawers hide other secret drawers, three in number. The base has faceted columns and has three drawers in the belt with marquetry in the cabinet model. Charles II period - 17th century - Circa 1685 Dimensions: L.109 H.167 P.44.