18th Century French Louis XV Carved Walnut Buffet Deux Corps from Provence

$18,000

About

Crafted in Arles, Provence in southern France circa 1760, the exceptional buffet Deux-Corps is in immaculate condition. The cabinet, built in two sections, stands on escargot feet over a scalloped and pierced apron decorated with bumming flower bud motifs within a hand carved central shell. The buffet features a “Chapeau de Gendarme” molded cornice decorated with shell motif at the pediment, over foliage carved freeze decor. The upper body with rounded corners and scrolled decor, features two carved doors with recessed panels, and decorated with floral motifs. The cabinet opens to reveal an interior with two shelves including interior drawers. The lower section also with rounded corners, features two foliate carved raised panel doors; opening the doors revealing bottom display shelving. Both doors retain the original barrel hinges and graceful curvilinear escutcheons. The elegant four-door cabinet is in excellent condition, and adorns a rich walnut patina. Original locks and two keys. A expertise appraisal with provenance is included (see last picture). Original purchase price in 1998: 230,000 French Francs (about $42,000). Measures: 656″ W x 26″ D x 101″ H.

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