Arguably one of the most recognizable pieces of furniture to emerge from the historical French province of Provence, this panetière “bread safe” was hand-carved in walnut in circa 1870. The turned baluster forms that comprise most of the front and the sides are definitively provincial, as are the four small volute scroll feet. Sometimes the panetière would sit on the feet on top of a petrin, which was a kneading station that often would have been carved to match the panetière. Nine turned finials of various heights sit on top of the highly shaped crest that mirrors the apron with its scrolled moldings and asymmetrical embellishments. The door has a much larger disproportionate carving that is partially obscured by the pierced key plate (for the functioning lock). During the 18th century, panetieres were used to keep bread safe from children and pets, until it was ready to be served at the table. Often considered status symbols, the more affluent households would have finely carved pieces, such as our walnut panetiere. Today, panetieres are often seen as decorative wall-mounted accessories, although they could be used in the kitchen or bar area to store aperitif and wine bottles.
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