19th Century French Bressan Walnut Burl Buffet à Horloge Vaisselier

$12,600

About

Crafted in the Bresse region near Lyon, France circa 1860, this impressive antique buffet à horloge combines a vaisselier, storage cabinet, and working longcase clock in one highly decorative piece. Constructed of walnut with richly figured burl panels and ash burl accents, the two-part cabinet is finely carved throughout with floral, shell, scroll, and foliate motifs.

The upper section is centered by a shaped clock case with white enamel dial signed “Bailly à Morbier,” Roman numerals, and an elaborate gilt brass crest surmounted by the French rooster. The clock movement has been checked and cleaned and is in good working order, keeping time and striking on the hour and half hour. Pendulum, two weights, and winding key are included.

Below the clock, the sculptural violin-shaped center section is flanked by open plate racks and two narrow storage cabinets. The lower buffet features two large paneled doors opening to interior shelving and four central drawers decorated with carved heart motifs and fitted with forged iron ring pulls.

The cabinet stands on eight shaped feet above carved scalloped aprons and retains a rich, warm walnut patina throughout. The removable white fabric backing provides contrast for displaying porcelain, faience, or decorative collections.

Known in France as a vaisselier horloge Bressan or buffet à horloge, this regional form is prized for combining decorative display, practical storage, and clockmaking in a single piece of furniture.

Excellent condition commensurate with age and use. Two cabinet keys, pendulum, two weights, and winding key included.

Dimensions: 76.75″ W x 22.75″ D x 105.5″ H.

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