Country French antique furniture is a sophisticated style with a casual elegance that blends well with today’s interiors. Country French furniture is the key element in a look that is a mix of antiques with vintage items whose design originally developed mainly in the 18th century when the style of the courts of Versailles influenced all designs emanating from France. Country French antique furniture can be termed more practical, pared down and less ornate, but still exuding tremendous style and flair.  Rural life was frequently celebrated in the designs and carvings of Country French antiques. This style of furniture can have motifs of roosters, wheat, grapes, whimsical themes and all things essential to Country French daily life.   In many cases these antique motifs date back to the more primitive years of King Louis XIII and exploded in popularity during the later reigns of Louis XIV, Louis XV and Louis XVI, romanticizing the country life of Provence and other rural provinces of France.

…..The peasant life in France remained simple despite the revolution in 1789.   Over time a wealthier upper middle class developed.   They thrived on the commerce of the local industries.   It was therefore inevitable that the luxury of chateau style living would eventually filter down to the middle classes and develop into what we now call the Country French style.   Local craftsmen of amazing talent would harvest prized local woods from the forests surrounding them, and handcraft incredible furniture and objects d’art that were so well made that they became French antiques over time.   Therefore we are fortunate to be able to enjoy them today.

Country French Antique Culinary Setting at Country Fair

…..Each province also developed a signature Country French style that distinguished it from the other provinces, although the influence of the courts of Paris was the original inspiration, which continues to be reflected in French Country designs today.  Scholars today have identified at least 26 specific regions of France, all of which developed a particular Country French style.   During the origins of this phenomenon, travel was difficult and the provinces were relatively isolated.   As the Country French styles developed and the Industrial Revolution emerged, artisans and residents of each region maintained their signature looks, defending their antique styles with a fierce sense of independence.

Rare Antique Country French Vaisselier Buffet with Original Morbier Clock and Cast Brass Hardware, Exhibiting Exceptional Hand-Carved Detailing from Normandie

…..The master artisans of Normandy created fine Country French furniture with their trademark flair and style, with antique armoires and buffets best representing their particular style niche.   The local forests provided an abundance of white & red oak, beech, walnut, and fruit trees, a fact not lost on able Country French artisans.   Traditionally, armoires were adorned with lovebirds on the nest, wildflowers, wheat, and flower and grape clusters, then presented as wedding gifts to young couples.   The motifs carved into the wood held the promise of a fruitful marriage and a long and happy life together.   Such armoires du marriage can still be found with determined searching.

Charming Antique Country French Setting with Antique Armoire, Antique Clock, Antique Buffet and Antique Garde Mangers in Inessa Stewart’s Antiques & Interiors Showroom

…..In contrast, the adjacent Brittany region of France preferred a more geometric style of Country French carving with subtle influences left over from the Gothic and Renaissance periods.   Many times their carved embellishment represented elements of life at sea as well as human interest, with sculpted figures and local characters clothed in period raiment and holding farm implements or engaging in celebration.  One of the treasures in our current Country French antiques collection is such an item, dating from the early 18th century, and completely handcrafted by the master artisans of Brittany.   No less than twenty distinct hand-carved panels, each with a different subject and theme, are framed with hand-carved molding to create an artistic masterpiece and unique Country French antique armoire.

Very Rare Early 18th Century Country French Armoire from Brittany with Renaissance Style Influence and 20 Uniquely Carved Panels

…..Country French antique furniture from woods like beech, walnut, fruitwood and oak were simply finished, in comparison to the highly polished imported mahogany & rosewood pieces of Paris.   Some furniture was painted in soft pastel colors with hand painted embellishment, others were limed or color washed. Many French Country furniture pieces are quite versatile and can be used for various functions.   Think of the iconic French antique armoire, which can be used in any room of the home or office, and can be adapted for a multitude of uses perfect for 21st century lifestyles.

Antique Louis XVI Style Country French Commode Hand-Carved with Floral Baskets and Intertwined Foliates

Antique Country French Aubusson Tapestry Depicting Idyllic Courtship Scene

…..The relaxed ambiance that Country French furniture produces has enabled the style to remain popular for centuries.  In articles to come, we’ll delve more deeply into specific regions of France, as well as discuss other countries’ developing furniture styles and cottage industries.  Country French furniture has an aura of magic around it ~ blending functionality with visual appeal ~ and it will remain a major player in interior design for centuries to come.   Although Country French furniture originated in France, its style has been lovingly embraced by Americans. It is a source of enjoyment in beautifying our homes, and has taken a special place in our hearts.