Very popular during the 18th and early 19th century, this piece is an example of a Louis XV Style Country French Armoire De Mariage. Circa 1820, it is made out of oak, and includes hand-made brass hinges and escutcheons. The construction is hand-pegged mortis and tenon joinery. Baskets of flowers adorn the cornice and center door panels, with a cornucopia of flowers on the top door panel. The carved acanthus leaves that decorate the top rim of the cornice are a nod to this popular motif in Greek and Roman architecture. Scrolled cabriolet legs support the piece.
We often talk about the romance surrounding antiques, but these pieces may offer the best example. Armoire De Mariage means marriage armoire, and served as a dowry piece for a newly married couple. A family member or good friend would commission the piece as a gift, and it was usually the first piece of furniture to be made for the newlyweds. Typically these armoires were ornately carved but often in a more delicate fashion than other furniture pieces. Another common characteristic is a carved basket of flowers or a pair of lovebirds located between the cornice and the top of the doors.
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