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Where Does the Phrase 'Pier Cabinet' Come From? A Brief History Of These Useful Antiques

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Date
May
10
2025

To View Our Range of Pier Cabinets please Click Here.

(Above photo - Victorian Pier Cabinet Ebonised Display Sevres Plaques 1880)

The term pier cabinet refers to a type of elegant display furniture popular in the 19th century, particularly during the Victorian era. These refined cabinets were often designed to sit against a pier wall the space between two windows or architectural columns hence the name. Their primary function was decorative, used to display fine porcelain, objets d’art, or collectibles behind a single glazed door, typically with mirrored backs and velvet-lined shelves to enhance the visual presentation.

(Above photo - Victorian Pier Cabinets Ebonized Display 1890)

The word pier in architecture historically denotes a vertical supporting element, such as the section of wall between two openings. In grand 18th- and 19th-century interiors, pier glasses (tall mirrors) and pier tables were specifically designed to fit these narrow vertical spaces. As home design evolved and more emphasis was placed on showcasing wealth and taste, pier cabinets emerged as both a functional and ornamental answer to furnish these often overlooked areas of the room.

(Above photo - Victorian Pier Cabinet Antique Display Case 1860)

Pier cabinets were typically made of fine woods such as rosewood or walnut, and often adorned with gilt mounts, inlay, or marquetry. They were most popular in England and France, reflecting the opulence of the Victorian and Louis Philippe styles, and today they remain sought after by collectors for their craftsmanship and refined proportions.

(Above photo - Victorian Pier Cabinet Ebonised Lacquer Inlay 1870)



(Above photo - Victorian Pier Cabinet Display Walnut Chest 1860)

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Redwell Wood Farm / Potters Bar / Herfordshine, EN6 3NA, UK

Website Developed by Nulence