Exceptional and Large Walnut Wood Buffet De Chateau, Nimes, France, C. 1750

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Dating to the period of Louis XV (circa 1750), this large and elegant walnut buffet de chateau was hand-carved in … Read more Dating to the period of Louis XV (circa 1750), this large and elegant walnut buffet de chateau was hand-carved in the Southern French town of Nimes. Woodworkers in Nimes adhered to the style dictated by the period, but these talented ebenistes added their own unique designs, which were hallmarked by distinct door panel shapes and flamboyant, pierced aprons that almost touched the floor. Based on the size of this particular buffet, it was most likely commissioned circa 1750 by a wealthy French family.

Thick iron hinges allow the asymmetrically paneled doors to open, revealing individual compartments, each with one shelf. The doors have deep, sinuous moldings with some barbed angles, which is mirrored by the thinner molding of the central mullion, which is affixed to the left door. Similarly, both side panels have asymmetrical rectilinear moldings with luscious carvings, while the aprons have a unique and unbalanced composition. All four legs are small cabrioles that terminate in volute whorls above pad feet. Both front legs are embellished with a roquillard leaf that leads the eye to the elaborately pierced apron consisting of gadrooned leaves, foliate branches, and C-scrolls. The carvings were clearly the work of a master level ebeniste, full of life and movement. Equally impressive is the shaped brown marble top with black, cream, and beige veining and a seamless quarter-round and cavetto molding combination. The smooth edges are accentuated by a subtle bombe curve in the front that is flanked by angular shoulders. Place our fantastic buffet de chateau in a dining room, grand foyer, or living room for a truly exceptional statement piece. See less