18th Century French Provincial Bonnetière Armoire, Circa 1780
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.
Constructed of walnut and mixed woods using traditional joinery, the piece retains extensive evidence of its age and history throughout. Old pegs, shrinkage, previous repairs, surface wear, scratches, losses, color variation and irregularities remain visible and were intentionally preserved rather than erased through excessive restoration.
The cabinet has been cleaned while retaining its aged character. No restoration or touch ups have been made. One original lock is missing from the center door; a compatible replacement lock and functioning key will be fitted prior to shipment.
A wonderfully substantial piece of French Provincial furniture with the scale, patina and imperfections that only genuine age can provide.
$5,500.00
1 in stock
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Details
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.
Please zoom in on all photos and reach out with any questions, happy too help.
| Dimensions | 44.25ʺW × 18.5ʺD × 78ʺH | |
|---|---|---|
| Materials | Wood | |
| Color | Chocolate | |
| Period | Late 18th Century | |
| Style | Louis XV, French Provincial | |
Good Condition, Original Condition Unaltered, Some Imperfections
Good antique condition consistent with significant age and use. Extensive age-related wear, surface variation, scratches, abrasions, old insect marks, shrinkage, separations, minor losses, previous repairs and irregularities are present throughout. The cabinet has naturally shifted over its long life and remains somewhat irregular/out of square. An old wood support has been added to the back to provide additional stability while remaining sympathetic to the original construction. Adjustable leveling feet have also been discreetly added to assist with leveling and stabilization. The original key was missing and a replacement key has been fitted; the existing lock currently operates but can be temperamental. The lock will be replaced prior to shipment for improved functionality. Hardware shows age and wear. The cabinet is structurally stable and functional, but its considerable age remains visible throughout and is considered an integral part of its character. Please review all photographs closely for condition and construction details.
