Medal cabinet
ca. 1814–18
Medium
Mahogany, oak, pine, holly; marquetry and veneer of figured oak and holly; ebony and ebonized wood; ivory; silk velvet
Dimensions
Overall (wt. confirmed): 20 1/2 × 21 × 12 3/8 in., 48 lb. (52.1 × 53.3 × 31.4 cm, 21.8 kg)
Classification
Woodwork-Furniture
Culture
British, London
Department
European Sculpture and Decorative Arts
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Purchase, Assunta Sommella Peluso, Ignazio Peluso, Ada Peluso and Romano I. Peluso Gift, 2014
Accession Number
2014.67
Rights
Public Domain
Art Historical Context
This elegant medal cabinet, crafted by the British cabinetmaker George Bullock around 1814–18, exemplifies the refined taste of early nineteenth-century London furniture. Designed to store and display prized medals, the piece combines practicality with ornamental sophistication, reflecting the period’s growing interest in personal collections and pursuits. Its compact form and rich materials suggest it was intended for a private study or library, where it would have served both functional and decorative purposes. The cabinet’s construction highlights Bullock’s masterful use of contrasting woods and inlays. Mahogany and oak provide a sturdy base, while veneers of figured oak and holly, accented with ebony and ivory, create subtle patterns that catch the light. Silk velvet lining adds a luxurious interior, protecting delicate contents while enhancing the visual appeal. These techniques demonstrate the high level of craftsmanship available in Regency-era Britain, where furniture makers blended utility with artistic detail. Acquired by the Metropolitan Museum of Art in 2014, this work offers visitors a glimpse into the refined world of early nineteenth-century British decorative arts. Its thoughtful design and intricate surfaces invite close examination, revealing the care with which everyday objects were elevated to works of art.