18th Century French Louis XIV Bleached Oak Buffet Deux Corps from Normandy

$14,000

About

An impressive example of 18th-century French provincial craftsmanship, this antique buffet à deux corps combines intricate hand-carved decoration with the warm character of bleached oak. Crafted in Normandy, France circa 1760, the substantial two-part cabinet reflects the traditional Louis XIV influence found in Northern French country furniture.

The upper section features a broad molded cornice above a richly carved frieze embellished with scrolling foliage, acanthus leaves, floral motifs, and a central shell cartouche. Two tall doors are decorated with elaborate Rococo-style carvings, including floral garlands, scrolling moldings, and shaped openings fitted with chicken-wire panels. The interior reveals three serpentine wooden shelves and a paneled back, providing generous display space for faience, porcelain, or decorative collections.

The lower cabinet features two paneled doors with gracefully shaped moldings and carved foliate accents, opening to reveal a spacious storage compartment with an interior shelf. The cabinet retains traditional iron hinges, decorative escutcheons, and two working locks with a key. The molded plinth base provides a substantial foundation, while the paneled sides and pegged construction reflect traditional French cabinetmaking.

The antique Norman buffet is in excellent condition commensurate with age and use, and adorns a beautiful light bleached oak patina that accentuates the depth of the carvings and natural wood grain. Standing nearly eight feet tall, this architectural piece would make a striking addition to a dining room, kitchen, or country living space.

Dimensions: 60″ W x 25″ D x 93″ H.

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