18th C. Heavily Carved Antique French Normandy Wedding Armoire

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18th C. Heavily Carved Antique French Normandy Wedding Armoire

About the Item

Phenomenal hand-carved 18th century solid oak wedding armoire from the Normandy region of France. Antique wedding armoires like this one, were hand-carved by a daughter's father, given at a young age and filled with linens and clothes (a trousseau) to move with her once she was wed. The father that made this must have loved his daughter greatly, because the carvings are absolutely top notch, notice the birds, the flowers and the vines decorating this extraordinary armoire. Picture in your mind, one man (a father) hand-carving and building an armoire like this from scratch, with no power tools nor electricity whatsoever. This is an excellent example of old-world craftsmanship at its absolute finest, don't miss it!! French furniture comprises both the most sophisticated furniture made in Paris for the king and his court, aristocrats and rich upper bourgeoisie on the one hand, and French provincial furniture made in the provincial cities and towns many of which, like Lyon and Liège, retained cultural identities distinct from the metropolis. There was also a conservative artisanal rural tradition of French country furniture which remained unbroken until the advent of the railroads in the mid-nineteenth century. Furniture made in provincial centers such as Blois and Orléans in the Loire valley, and at Lyon or Liège (Not actually part of France politically but, within its cultural orbit), followed at some distance the design innovations that were initiated in the luxury trades of Paris, often with a time lag that could amount to decades. Features typically associated with French Provincial furniture include cabriole legs, and simple scalloped carving. Dining chairs often have a wheat pattern carving reflecting the country surroundings of the maker. The ladder back chair with a woven rush seat is the typical French Provincial dining chair. Finishes vary, though common to all colors is the accumulation of polish or grime in the carving over time resulting in an aged patina and emphasis on the carving regardless of whether the furniture is painted or stained. According to French tradition, wedding armoire, also known as hope chest is used for the bride's trousseau. The trousseau would contain clothing for Sundays, everyday dresses, lingerie and embroidered linens that she had prepared with initials of her future family. It is usually hand-carved with symbols of wealth, prosperity, and lovebirds, by the father of a future bride and is given to her when she is still an adolescent. As she grew up, she would fill it up with her own wardrobe and take it with her to her new home. During the 18th century wedding armoires were manufactured by craftsmen and offered to the newlyweds as a wedding present. Over the years the trousseau has evolved to denote the special outfit she will wear after doffing her gown and take with her on her honeymoon. Also the concept of a trousseau has given rise to the modern bridal shower, designating all the chief household articles to raise her future family.

Dimensions:
Height: 89.25 in (226.7 cm)Width: 61.75 in (156.85 cm)Depth: 25.5 in (64.77 cm)
Place of Origin:
France
Period:
18th Century and Earlier
Date of Manufacture:
circa 1760's
Condition:
Seller Location:
Chicago, IL
Reference Number:
Seller: j13961stDibs: U12071182433651