18th Century French Provincial Bonnetière Armoire, Circa 1780

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Description

A wonderfully timeworn 18th-century French Provincial bonnetière or single-door armoire, dating to approximately the late 1700s.

Constructed of solid wood … Read more A wonderfully timeworn 18th-century French Provincial bonnetière or single-door armoire, dating to approximately the late 1700s.

Constructed of solid wood using traditional early joinery and plank construction, the cabinet features a tall narrow form, deeply molded cornice, paneled door with shaped Louis XV-style contours, carved apron and wonderfully irregular hand-worked details throughout. The interior retains simple fixed shelving, while the back is constructed from wide horizontal boards.

This is a piece whose age is immediately apparent and very much part of its appeal. Centuries of use have left the wood with exceptional surface character, variation, old repairs, wear and a beautifully mellowed patina that simply cannot be replicated.

The cabinet has been carefully stabilized while preserving as much of its historic character as possible. An old piece of wood sympathetic to the cabinet’s age and appearance was added to the back as additional structural support. Discreet adjustable leveling feet were also added to improve stability and compensate for the natural irregularity of the case.

The original key was no longer present. A period-appropriate replacement key has been fitted and currently operates the lock, although operation is temperamental. Prior to shipment, we intend to replace the lock with a compatible antique-style lock for more reliable function.
An exceptional survivor with the imperfections, movement and personality expected of a piece approaching 250 years of age.
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