Antique Country French armoires were the most prized family possessions of families during the 18th century, and these types of armoires were cherished by many generations since the reign of Louis XV (1723-1774). This particularly exceptional example of French cabinetmaking was crafted in the countryside near the city of Lyon, the second largest city of France, and famous for its skilled and exceptional craftsmen.
Inlaid on the crown of this magnificent antique Country French armoire is the Maltese Cross, a symbol that dates back to the Crusades. Hand-crafted from select French walnut by the master artisans in the regions surrounding Lyon, it bears a simplistic architecture that allows one to more fully appreciate the sheer natural beauty of Europe’s finest indigenous wood. One of its most endearing qualities is the way French walnut achieves such a wonderful patina with the passing of the decades. Exquisitely scrolled frameworks and bold molded detail continues around each side, and this armoire boasts its original lockwork, keyguards and hinges for an authentic and historic example of 18th century hand-crafted artisanry. Note also the quatrefoil symbolism in the center panels of each door representing the four points of the Cross, and the fact that the side panels, all chamfered to perfection, number five (rather than three) on each side which was a common trait for armoires made in the area surrounding Lyon.
Circa 1750s.
As the center of commerce and banking with a unique geographical location, the town enjoyed a burgeoning furniture industry during the 18th century. Lyon was a hub of the textile industry including a very lucrative silk trade. The stately homes of prosperous merchants demanded fine furniture of distinctive character, and French walnut was the wood of choice. Lyonnais style elements are celebrated with center quatrefoil panels, and with thick and deeply carved moldings. Sides of armoires such as this example were usually distinguished with five rectangular panels inset in bas relief. This antique “country cousin” of the famed Lyonnais Country French armoires was crafted in the rural area surrounding the city for one of the charming Provencal farmhouses in the region, keeping all important attributes and elements of the enduring style.
Long ago, on a trip to the South of France in search of Country French antiques, I was introduced to a talented young lady named Brigitte. She spoke English well, which was a rarity in those days. She generously invited me to her family’s coutnry home, and her graciousness had an enormous influence on me. This was well over two decades ago, and at the time I was somewhat new to the Provençal French experience. So naturally I jumped at the chance…read more at Beverly Drive Magazine.
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