18th Century French Louis XV Pewter Lavabo on Carved Walnut Stand

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A rare survivor of 18th-century French domestic life, this antique Louis XV lavabo combines sculptural walnut carving with its original … Read more A rare survivor of 18th-century French domestic life, this antique Louis XV lavabo combines sculptural walnut carving with its original pewter water fittings. Crafted in Lyon, France circa 1780, the tall handwashing fountain features a shaped and fluted pewter reservoir fitted with two bronze spigots above a removable pewter basin with a scalloped profile.

The reservoir is mounted against an elaborately carved walnut backboard crowned by a large pierced shell motif, scrolling volutes, acanthus leaves, and floral decoration, all characteristic of the Louis XV Rococo vocabulary. Below, the shaped serving platform is framed by a deeply carved apron centered with a shell and foliate motif. Four slender cabriole legs complete the graceful silhouette and give the piece an unusually light, elegant presence despite its height.

Lavabos of this type were traditionally placed in dining rooms, bedrooms, or private apartments, where they provided water for washing the hands before modern indoor plumbing became commonplace. The combination of carved walnut, pewter reservoir, bronze taps, and fitted basin makes this example particularly decorative and complete.

The antique lavabo is in excellent condition commensurate with age and use and retains a warm, mellow walnut patina along with the softly aged surface of the pewter. Today it would make a striking architectural accent in an entry, dining room, powder room, or breakfast room.

Dimensions: 23" W x 17" D x 77" H. See less