Antique French Oak Marriage Armoire, 19th c.

19th Century Country French Armoire Du Marriage was a traditional gift to a newly wed couple that dates back hundreds of years in France!  This one is a particularly wonderful example of skilled rural craftsmanship that was literally designed to last for centuries!  The bold crown exhibits distinct types of molding detail, and presides over the bonnet which has been lavished with wildflower sprays and wheat in relief, centered with a basket bursting with foliage and two flaming hearts in the center.  The doors are singular works of art unto themselves, with bold scrollwork above and below, and especially at the center.  Carved embellishments at the top and bottoms of the doors glorify the acanthus leaf form and the indigenous wildflowers for which Normandie is so famous, for which the region is particularly blessed.  Even the center stile which is attached to the left door has received the attentions of the sculptor's hand with two columns of spiral ribbon trim.  Each door is hung with three brass  barrel hinges, allowing them to open wide making for easy access, revealing the fully provisioned interior.  The apron below finishes out the eloquent display with a neoclassical urn, drapery motifs and even more wildflowers, flanked by finely carved and scrolled legs.  A truly impressive piece of history!
Circa 1860s
Measures 87” tall x 62” wide x 26” deep.