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French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

FRENCH PROVINCIAL STYLE

Removed from the fashions of the court, French Provincial style developed in the provinces of the country, such as Provence, Normandy, the Loire Valley and Bordeaux. Dating to the 17th and 18th centuries, French Provincial furniture was not as ostentatious as the designs being produced for the royal palaces, but elegant S-shape cabriole legs and ornate carvings elevated the sturdy chairs, sofas, tables and bedroom furniture intended for everyday use.

Although it varies by region, antique French Provincial furniture is unified by solid construction and an artisanal attention to design. While this furniture often followed the metropolitan trends — including the Rococo or neoclassical aesthetics of Louis XIV, Louis XV and Louis XVI — since it was produced in the French countryside it was more subdued with nods to its rustic settings.

Local materials like fruitwoods, oak, beech and walnut were used to construct large French Provincial armoires for storage and comfortable armchairs with rush-woven seats. Wrought-iron elements and carvings like floral details and scallop patterns were common as ornamentation. Furniture was frequently painted white or other muted colors that coordinated with gilt and would acquire a patina of age over time. Other wood was just stained with vibrant fabric such as toile de Jouy, which sometimes depicted pastoral scenes, adding color as upholstery.

The style arrived in the United States after World War I, with soldiers returning home wanting furniture like what they had seen in the rural homes and castles of France. In Grand Rapids, Michigan, designer John Widdicomb split from his family business, the Widdicomb Furniture Company, and had been focusing on Louis XV– and French Provincial–style furnishings since the early 1900s. Other American manufacturers such as Baker, Drexel, Henredon and Thomasville also responded to demand. Today antique French Provincial pieces and reproductions continue to be popular.

Find a collection of antique French Provincial dining tables, seating, decorative objects and other furniture on 1stDibs.

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Style: French Provincial
Color:  Brown
Warsaw Cabinetmaker French Provincial Bonnet Top Bombe Armoire Cabinets, a Pair
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Vintage warsaw cabinetmaker French Provincial bonnet top bombe armoire cabinets - a pair. Item features bonnet top bombe form, solid wood construction, b...
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Mid-20th Century North American French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Cherry

French Style Double Door Armoire by Widdicomb with Eggplant Accents 20thC
Located in Big Flats, NY
French Provincial Style Armoire by Widdicomb with Double Door Opening to Drawers and having Eggplant Accents 20thC Measures- 55.5''H x 38''W x 19.5''D
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20th Century American French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Wood

19th Century Antique French Provincial Carved Oak Armoire from Pierre Deux
Located in Chicago, IL
19th Century antique French provincial carved oak armoire, with flora and fauna carvings on the doors and intricate border carvings. One interior shelf. Provenance: Pierre Deux.
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19th Century French Antique French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Oak

French Birds-Eye Maple and Faux Bamboo Armoire or Wardrobe, 1900s
Located in Amsterdam, NL
Magnificent and ultra rare French Provincial armoire or wardrobe. Striking French design from the 1900s. Executed in birds-eye maple and faux bamboo, this stunning piece of craftsm...
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Early 1900s French Antique French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Mirror, Birdseye Maple, Cherry

18th Century French Country Armoire
Located in Doylestown, PA
A lovely Louis XV period arched-top armoire in honey-colored cherrywood, beautifully carved with floral motifs, the two inset paneled doors retaining their original lock and hardware...
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18th Century French Antique French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Cherry

19th Century Belgian Bleached Oak Armoire
Located in High Point, NC
This Belgian armoire, crafted circa 1850, boasts a noble pale oak finish that enhances its stately presence. Tall and ample, the chest provides a pleth...
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19th Century Belgian Antique French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Oak

English 18th Century Oak Cabinet
Located in Baton Rouge, LA
This wonderfully carved solid oak cabinet was crafted in the 1700s with style and functionality in mind. Thumbnail molded paneling on the front and sides give it fantastic depth. The...
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18th Century English Antique French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Hardwood, Oak

Fine Solid Oak Single Door French Country Armoire Bonnetiere Circa 1840s
Located in Swedesboro, NJ
This is a gorgeous solid oak French bonnetiere or single door armoire. The armoire has all of the desirable features most collectors yearn for, worming, an old lock...
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1840s French Antique French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Oak

Antique Early 19th C. French Provincial Hand Carved Elm and Burled Elm Bonnetier
Located in New Orleans, LA
An exquisite, hand made, antique early 19th century French provincial, hand carved elm and stunning burled wood armoire with stunning original wrou...
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Early 19th Century French Antique French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Iron

Incredible 18th century French armoire with “Tree of life”
Located in Charleston, SC
Simply the best armoire I have ever seen. This incredible work of art is from the 18th century and made in the south of France of walnut. Clearly an important commission of the time...
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18th Century French Antique French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Walnut

19th Century French Grand Hand Carved Walnut Provincial Vitrine
Located in Sofia, BG
19th Century French grand vitrine or wardrobe made in fine hand carved walnut wood in provincial style. Very good and stable condition with no restorations made so far. Original glas...
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Mid-19th Century French Antique French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Walnut

Antique Armoire Painted with Mesh Inserts in Doors, FR-0163
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Antique Armoire. Painted with mesh inserts on doors. Some minor chips and dings on wood. Item #: FR-0163 Additional Information: Dimensions: 39"W x 20"D x 85”H.  
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20th Century French French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Metal

French Country Arched Top Mid 1800s era Armoire
Located in Swedesboro, NJ
For customers that require professional insured delivery we are proud to have teamed up with a nationwide professional delivery company that will assist with coordinating your delive...
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1850s French Antique French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Walnut

Antique French Carved Elm Armoire with Beveled MIrror Doors
Located in New Orleans, LA
This is a beautifully carved piece with handsome nature motifs.
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Late 19th Century French Antique French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Elm, Mirror

Exceptional 19th Century Heavily Carved French Bridal Armoire
Located in Bridgeport, CT
Grand 19th century French armoire, the crown heavily carved with intricate and dimensional flowers and leaf basket, flanked by corner floral motifs. The armoire with two doors having...
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19th Century Antique French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Wood

Tall Vintage French Oak Cabinet, Manner of Jacques Adnet
Located in East Hampton, NY
This is a wonderful natural oak cabinet with inset panels and two large doors which open to deep and wide shelving. Original key and lock. This has been lightly restored and the back...
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1940s French Vintage French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Oak

1800s French Provincial Armoire with Original Patina
Located in High Point, NC
A wooden cabinet from France, circa 1800. Scalloped panels gift the cabinet a graceful symmetry, while the deep sable color of the wood, accentuated by a r...
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Early 1800s French Antique French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Brass

19th Century Normandie Armoire Du Marriage
Located in Dallas, TX
19th Century Normandie Armoire Du Marriage was a traditional gift to a newly wed couple that dates back hundreds of years in France! This one is a particularly wonderful example of ...
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1870s French Antique French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Oak

1800s French Bleached Oak Armoire
Located in High Point, NC
An antique bleached oak cabinet from France, produced circa 1800. A grand wardrobe standing well over seven feet tall, featuring locking d...
Category

19th Century French Antique French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Brass

19th C. French Provincial Oak Armoire
Located in Southampton, NY
19th C. French provincial oak armoire. A charmingly carved armoire in oak with central round medallions on the center crown and doors. A...
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19th Century French Antique French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Oak

Fine Traditional French Provincial Dark Stained Armoire
Located in Bridgeport, CT
Very fine traditional antique French armoire with a useful and hard to come by 12” depth. A carved bonnet over a frieze with carved cross motif. With the Classic shaped and carved bu...
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19th Century French Antique French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Wood

French Arts & Crafts Walnut Mirror Double Door Armoire
Located in Chillerton, Isle of Wight
French Arts & Crafts walnut mirror double door armoire This is a good quality tall piece not surprising as it is made in figured walnut and has...
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1880s Antique French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Walnut

Grand 18th Century Country French Buffet a Deux Corps in Stripped Oak
Located in Dallas, TX
Grand 18th Century Country French Buffet a Deux Corps in Stripped Oak was rendered from dense, old-growth oak, and features a stately presence with a staid architectural form that em...
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1790s French Antique French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Oak

18th Century French Carved Pine Hutch
Located in Houston, TX
Beautiful hand-carved 18th-century French hutch.
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18th Century European Antique French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Pine

Large Impressive French Oak Armoire
Located in Buchanan, NY
This striking solid oak armoire from France, dating back to the late 18th or early 19th century, is both beautiful and unique. Its rare dismantling feature enhances its practicality,...
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Early 1800s French Antique French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Oak

19th Century French Bleached Oak Armoire
Located in High Point, NC
This French oak armoire, made circa 1860, imparts the distinguished air of classical antiquity. The cabinet adopts an upright shape accentuated by the mitered corners of the molded c...
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19th Century French Antique French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Brass

1780s French Provincial Armoire
Located in High Point, NC
Elegant lines and a wealth of charming details gives this antique cabinet a perennial freshness. Made in France in the 1780s, the wood has retained its original finish — a rich aubur...
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Late 18th Century French Antique French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Hardwood

Lovely Rattan Wardrobe Set, 1970s Italy
Located in Nürnberg, Bayern
Beautiful condition, see pictures. Dimensions individual elements: Mirror: height 89cm, width 44cm, depth 2cm. Cupboard: height 110cm, width 59cm, depth 17.5m. Chest of drawe...
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1970s Italian Vintage French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Rattan

Early 19th Century Country French Armoire
Located in Dallas, TX
Early 19th century country French Armoire is a prime example of one of the most important historical developments in the world of furniture. Back before the days of closets in every ...
Category

Early 19th Century French Antique French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Steel

18th Century French Walnut Armoire or Bonnetiere
Located in Essex, MA
Early 18th century French walnut bonnetiere or small wardrobe armoire. Beautiful patina of walnut, original finish, one door with nice original carvings. Great size.   
Category

Early 18th Century French Antique French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Walnut

French Provincial Carved Walnut Armoire
Located in New York, NY
French Provincial (18th Century) two door large scale armoire in walnut with original hardware and shield, bird, and foliate carving on cornice.  
Category

18th Century French Antique French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Walnut

20th Century French Provincial Style Walnut Armoire by John Widdicomb
Located in Southampton, NY
20th century French Provincial style walnut armoire by John Widdicomb, marked with plaque. Behind two doors: Upper area is fitted with rail to hold hanging clothes. Plus two adjus...
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Late 20th Century American French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Walnut

French Provincial 18th Century Walnut Armoire
Located in New York, NY
French Provincial 18th century walnut two door large scale armoire with foliate carved detail on doors and cornice with original hardware supported on a flat base.
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18th Century French Antique French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Walnut

French Provincial Double Door Armoire
Located in New Orleans, LA
This majestic French walnut armoire is a stunning example of the Provincial style. Standing nearly nine feet high, this rare armoire featuring splendid rocaille carvings above its do...
Category

18th Century French Antique French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Wood, Walnut

French 18th Century Provincial Walnut Armoire
Located in New York, NY
French Provincial 18th century walnut carved armoire with double scroll top and 2 doors with carved border.
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18th Century French Antique French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Walnut

18th Century Country French Armoire in Walnut with Arched Bonnet
Located in Miami, FL
A lovely French armoire in walnut with arched bonnet, fluted astragal between the two paneled doors with parquetry decorating the middle panel of each, and resting on carved escargot...
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Late 18th Century French Antique French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Steel

19th Century painted Provencal Wardrobe Library Cabinet, Cupboard, Restored
Located in Vigonza, Padua
1890s antique painted Provencal library cabinet, cupboard, wardrobe in massive wood, restored and wax polished. The lacquer in shades of gray purplish are original and only retouched...
Category

Mid-19th Century French Antique French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Wood

French Provincial Carved Walnut Armoire
Located in New York, NY
French Provincial (18th Century) walnut carved 2 door armoire with center oval medallion with initials and draped with a carved wreath and bow knot.
Category

18th Century Antique French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Walnut

French Provincial Walnut Armoire Cabinet
Located in New York, NY
French Provincial (18/19th Century) walnut armoire cabinet with 3 drawers at bottom and doors with wire mesh panels.
Category

Early 19th Century French Antique French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Walnut

French Provincial Walnut Armoire. Circa 1780
Located in Hollywood, SC
French Provincial Walnut two door hinged armoire with scrolled floral & shell carving , original polished steel hardware, brass escutcheons, and terminating on cabriole feet. Late 18...
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1780s French Antique French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Brass, Steel

Large french corner wardrobe from the 1900s, pure linen color
Located in LYON, FR
This sublime corner cabinet (meaning its cornice stops on the right side) is intended for its right side to be positioned against a wall. It is therefore a corner cabinet from the 19...
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1890s European Antique French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Pine

19th Century French Oak Armoire
Located in High Point, NC
This provincial oak armoire combines a statuesque design with a subtle natural finish. Built in France in the 1800s, the burled grain of the oak provides elegant organic ornament, wh...
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19th Century French Antique French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Oak

1800s, French, Bleached Oak Armoire
Located in High Point, NC
A bleached oak armoire from France, produced circa 1800. A towering armoire standing nearly eight feet tall and stretching over six and a half fee...
Category

19th Century French Antique French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Oak

Early 19th Century Belgian Oak Armoire
Located in High Point, NC
Regally poised like an ancient pillar, this armoire was made in Belgium circa 1800. Sturdily supported by its biomorphic feet, the vintage chest boas...
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Early 19th Century French Antique French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Oak

1800s Louis XIV Oak Armoire
Located in High Point, NC
Grand proportions and beautiful panelling make this antique oak armoire a magnificent find. Made in France circa 1800 in the style of Louis XIV, th...
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19th Century French Antique French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Brass

18th Century Louis XV French Provincial Carved Armoire or Wardrobe France 1700s
Located in Oklahoma City, OK
Standing at nearly nine feet high, this rare solid wood armoire or Buffet de château originating from the 18th century is an excellent example of French furniture during the 1700s. With a wonderfully rich patina, this large beautiful piece features intricate carvings throughout. The most unique feature is the bonnet with a bas relief which shows a carved Vanitas scene of a child resting upon a skull and book above a pair of intricately carved double doors. It can be used as a wardrobe or large moveable cupboard with doors and shelves for storing clothing or even perhaps a media cabinet. Rare, Louis XV period armoires such as this are the epitome of French Provincial furniture. They are increasingly difficult to find in this condition, especially with their original hardware, for it was often removed and melted down for ammunition during the unrest of the late 18th and early 19th centuries. This armoire or cabinet is monumental in size and weight. The main case of the piece is rectangular in shape. The bonnet cornice top or domed crown sits snuggly on top of two large scalloped paneled hinged doors. The double doors are elaborately carved with center medallions and open to reveal the inside which includes adjustable shelves and drawer for storage. This wardrobe sits upon 2 cabriole legs in the front and two block legs in the back. Looking underneath the piece, at the bottom, you can see that the wood has been laid out and crafted in a way that resembles a cross. (See photos) Definitely a religious piece. It also features bow tie joints. Original grain can be seen and mortise and tenon joints. This wardrobe exhibits historically accurate carvings with lovely symbolic details throughout and vividly demonstrates the excitement of the period. The center cartouche at the top of the bonnet is embellished by a vanitas theme carved child resting in repose on a bed with a book, and a skull without a jaw underneath. This is commonly known as Vanitas or Memento Mori in Latin, meaning "Remember You Will Die". This sentiment is the Medieval Latin Christian theory and practice of reflection on mortality, especially as a means of considering the vanity of earthly life and the transient nature of all earthly goods and pursuits. It also resembles Eros. Traditionally, the skull represents death, evil, fear, and mortality, but it can also symbolize the complete opposite: protection, power, and gratitude toward life. Which points to the French custom of a father's gift to his newborn daughter. The crafting or purchase of an armoire carved with symbols of plenty and happiness stayed with her throughout her life and was used to store her trousseau in her own home once she married. Regardless of its symbolism, the skull stands as a constant reminder that no one can escape death. For example, the appearance of skulls on some Christian rosaries is said to reflect the Latin expression Memento Mori, meaning ‘remember that you shall die.’ Below this beautiful figural carving are two large domed doors also with intricate carvings The carvings are very well-articulated and in wonderful condition for the age. A serpentine apron features a beautifully carved rocaille (Rococo shell) cartouche and foliate. Original hand forged mountings and double-bolt locking mechanisms characterize this brilliant 18th-century furnishing and tell the story of the time period. The two massive doors feature a beautiful, intricate steel locking mechanism stamped with the Fleur de Lys which signifies that the piece was crafted either for the nobility or royalty. The first armoires appeared in France during the latter half of the 17th century and were most often the dominant feature of the home. These large cupboards were used to hold a family’s belongings from linens to clothing to silver and even food. Originating in France, the French provincial style was born of the ornate Louis XV and Rococo. However, it was crafted by furniture makers in the provinces, outside of the cities. By nature, its beauty relies more on form, function and available materials, and less on ostentatious decorative elements, such as gilding or intricate marquetry. Pieces of this time period were carved with great artistry and skill, yet were made to be functional and long-lasting. One of the most significant features of fine Provincial armoires are the locks and hinges. Because these cupboards were a very important part of the household, little expense was spared in outfitting them with the finest hardware. Long ornate hinges and elaborately scrolled escutcheons were an integral part of the overall design of the armoire. Often, the hinges, lock, and key cost more to produce than the armoire itself. The expense of such a grand armoire was enormous and it often served as an indication of a family's wealth and social standing. As their wealth and possessions grew, armoires were added to the household and it was not unusual for a wealthy family to have several armoires. This beautiful piece could be used as an armoire, wardrobe, linen chest, cabinet or storage cupboard. Or perhaps as a TV entertainment center...
Category

18th Century French Antique French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Iron

Exceptional Hand-Painted Wardrobe from Early 19th Century
Located in Sofia, BG
Beautiful hand-painted wardrobe from early 19th century in great condition. There are two doors, three shelves inside and two elegant drawers on the bottom as well. This lovely piece is a part of a full bedroom set...
Category

Early 19th Century French Antique French Provincial Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Wood

French Provincial wardrobes and armoires for sale on 1stDibs.

Find a broad range of unique French Provincial wardrobes and armoires for sale on 1stDibs. Many of these items were first offered in the Late 20th Century, but contemporary artisans have continued to produce works inspired by this style. If you’re looking to add vintage wardrobes and armoires created in this style to your space, the works available on 1stDibs include case pieces and storage cabinets, building and garden elements, folk art and other home furnishings, frequently crafted with wood, oak and other materials. If you’re shopping for used French Provincial wardrobes and armoires made in a specific country, there are Europe, France, and North America pieces for sale on 1stDibs. While there are many designers and brands associated with original wardrobes and armoires, popular names associated with this style include Baker Furniture Company, John Widdicomb, Auffray Furniture, and Karges Furniture. It’s true that these talented designers have at times inspired knockoffs, but our experienced specialists have partnered with only top vetted sellers to offer authentic pieces that come with a buyer protection guarantee. Prices for wardrobes and armoires differ depending upon multiple factors, including designer, materials, construction methods, condition and provenance. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $995 and tops out at $54,000 while the average work can sell for $6,118.

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