Boule Work
The interest of Buhl or Boule work, an inlay of metal employed in the French Renaissance in the decoration of furniture, often in conjunction with tortoiseshell, is that of contrast of texture.
No. 264. Italian Intarsia. Forms elaborated by incised lines.
In the design, profile or silhouette is the primary consideration, being used:
- 1. As a form of framing,
- 2. In angles or centres on table-tops,
- 3. In panels in furniture:
No. 265. Louis XV Cabinet with Ormolu Mounts.
Marquetry, veneer quartered and inlaid with floral detail. (Photo: V & A Museum).
No. 266. Boule Work. Period of Louis XVI.
The design can invariably be complete within the area. Coloured grounds are employed as well as tortoiseshell.