Mid 19th Century Antique French Renaissance Armoire Linen Press Library Bookcase China Cabinet

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An exquisite French Renaissance Revival Bibliotheque, Linen press or Display Cabinet. Circa mid 19th cenutry. A large rectangular oak case … Read more An exquisite French Renaissance Revival Bibliotheque, Linen press or Display Cabinet. Circa mid 19th cenutry. A large rectangular oak case centered by original 3/4 length glass between turned and fluted columns. Lower side of doors features an inset baroque cartouche with fruit basket and foliate motif within an arched deisgn. Upper molding is stylized with a dentil molding over acanthus frieze. Opens to four adjustable shelves. Case is supported by bun feet.

With large full length doors, we often look at antique armoires as passageways to secret rooms or even different worlds. While most antique armoires don’t take us to a different dimension, they nonetheless add incredible charm and beauty to both new and old homes alike.

Before closets were built into rooms, a solid wood free-standing wardrobe or “armoire” (French for Wardrobe) was standard for storing clothes. However, not all could afford such a luxury, and many antique wardrobes belonged to the upper classes who owned more than one set of clothes.

Thus, on antique armoires from the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries, we often see artistic embellishments and luxurious details. Antique French armoires often have Rococo or Gothic carvings, mirrored doors and naturalistic carvings. These feminine elements on antique French armoires demonstrate a high level of craftsmanship and artistry afforded only by the rich.

The phrase Knock-down referes to the ability for these pieces to be easily disassembled and re-assembled. This allowed for these massive armoires to be able to shipped hundreds of miles and fit up the narrow staircases and winding hallways of the Victorian and preceding eras. See less