19th Century Country French Fountain With Porcelain Reservoir & Basin

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Description

Evocative of everyday life in the French countryside during the 19th century, this remarkable Country French lavabo combines practical domestic … Read more Evocative of everyday life in the French countryside during the 19th century, this remarkable Country French lavabo combines practical domestic history with beautiful craftsmanship. Long before indoor plumbing became commonplace, lavabos such as this provided a convenient source of fresh water for washing hands and were traditionally placed near an entry, in a kitchen, or within the family living quarters.
Crafted from solid oak, the tall paneled back rises above a useful lower cabinet, creating a handsome vertical composition with the warmth and patina acquired through generations of use. The cabinet door is embellished with geometric molded detail, while the projecting surface beneath the basin provides both visual balance and a practical work area.
Its most captivating feature is the original hand-painted faience ensemble. The shaped porcelain reservoir is fitted with a faucet and decorated with colorful floral motifs, complemented by the matching basin mounted below. Together, they bring a wonderful decorative quality to a utilitarian form and reflect the French tradition of bringing artistry into the objects of daily life.
Today, an antique lavabo such as this offers numerous possibilities for an interior. It can remain a fascinating historical focal point, serve as a decorative washstand in a powder room, or become an unexpected accent in a kitchen, garden room, entry hall, or country house interior. The combination of richly patinated oak and hand-painted faience gives the piece both authenticity and considerable decorative presence.
Circa early to mid-1800s
Measures 68H x 21.5W x 15D
This heirloom is available at Inessa Stewart’s Antiques, Baton Rouge, Louisiana. See less