19th Century French Walnut Wood Bonnetière Vitrine From Provence

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During the mid-18th century, women’s fashion became grandiose, with towering wigs and exotic headwear becoming the norm for the bourgeoisie. … Read more During the mid-18th century, women’s fashion became grandiose, with towering wigs and exotic headwear becoming the norm for the bourgeoisie. This necessitated a need for tall and narrow storage to keep these extravagant stylings in pristine condition. Discovered in Provence, France, our hand-carved walnut bonnetière vitrine (dating to the 1800s) is one such piece.

The original finish of the bonnetière has been removed, leaving the wood with a neutral tan hue. This allows the elegant Louis XV-style carvings to gain more prominence. Notice the asymmetrical moldings that surround the glass pane at the top of the door and the carved panel beneath it, both hallmarks of Louis XV style. Behind the door is a golden lining (only on the upper section that is visible behind the glass), as well as a gold floral print that is affixed to the back of the carved panel. The carvings on the front façade are related to nature, highlighted by the low-relief carving of a floral bouquet in a woven basket beneath the richly molded crown. Similarly, a sprawling floral grouping can be seen next to a fluted urn on the shapely apron, just beneath a small drawer with floral margents. The previously mentioned door panel is more agricultural in theme, with an elaborate display of vines, wheat chaffs, a scythe, and a brimmed hat, accompanied by a crinkled ribbon. A classic example of French Provincial, our bonnetiere can be used in today’s houses in a variety of ways, as it offers ample storage despite having a narrow footprint. For rooms with a lack of closet space, the bonnetiere could be used to store winter clothing during hotter months. Similarly, for those kitchens with a small pantry or inaccessible cupboards, this would make a fantastic freestanding pantry or a place to store appliances when not in use. See less