This antique French chest dates from the 19th century although the top has been replaced more recently. Hand carved of solid walnut, its charming rusticity is reflected in the hand-carved squares and rectangles comprising the front panel and signaling the Louis XIII style. Most likely, the chest was made in the northern part of Provence which adhered to the Louis XIII style longer than the southern part. The color of the walnut is particularly rich, reflecting generations of care with the traditional French ciré patiné technique. While there is some insect damage to the front, it is evident that it occurred decades ago and only reinforces the aura of the countryside surrounding this charming piece.
Reference
Gairaud, Yves, Le Guidargus du Meuble Régional (Les Editions de l’Amateur, Paris, 1990); Rousseau, Francis, Le Grand Livre des Meubles (Copyright Studio, Paris, 1999)
Uses
This piece is ideal as a blanket chest in a bedroom or even as a TV stand.
