Antique 19th Century French Louis XVI Walnut Carved Armoire Wardrobe Linen Press

Description

An extraordinary French Louis XVI knockdown armoire, circa 1870s. Made from walnut with a large central beveled looking glass / dressing mirror. The case is carved in a classical manner with low relief foliate, neoclassical ribboned cartouches and reeded stiles with X crossed design. Opens to three adjustable shelves and a lower drawer with key. The cabinet is supported by turned and tapered legs at the front and straight block legs are the rear.

With large full length doors, we often look at antique armoires as passageways to secret rooms or even different worlds. While most antique armoires don’t take us to a different dimension, they nonetheless add incredible charm and beauty to both new and old homes alike.

Before closets were built into rooms, a solid wood free-standing wardrobe or “armoire” (French for Wardrobe) was standard for storing clothes. However, not all could afford such a luxury, and many antique wardrobes belonged to the upper classes who owned more than one set of clothes.

Thus, on antique armoires from the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries, we often see artistic embellishments and luxurious details. Antique French armoires often have Rococo or Gothic carvings, mirrored doors and naturalistic carvings. These feminine elements on antique French armoires demonstrate a high level of craftsmanship and artistry afforded only by the rich.

The phrase Knock-down refers to the ability for these pieces to be easily disassembled and re-assembled. This allowed for these massive armoires to be able to shipped hundreds of miles and fit up the narrow staircases and winding hallways of the Victorian and preceding eras.

Condition

Very Good; General use related wear, some light pitting streaking to glass from age

Dimensions

19.5" x 56" x 90"h