Antique 19th C. French Louis XVI Neoclassical Oak Mirrored Armoire Wardrobe 97"

Description

Exquisite antique 19th century French Louis XVI Knockdown Armoire. Made from solid oak / quartersawn oak with meticulous carving throughout. Features a three door mirrored front with large rectangular stepped center flanked by lattice design, all in beveled glass. The elegant front showcases fluted columns, French medallions and a neoclassical scene showcasing ribbons, torchieres, scrolling foliate and swag. Upper apron has ribbons flanked by an intertwined vine motif beneath a flowing serpentine pierced and carved ribbon and bow motif. This elaborate and large scale carving is rarely found in pieces from this period. The base opens to three hand dovetailed drawers for additional storage and the frame is supported by square tapered feet. Interior opens to mirrored doors and shelves along the outside. The large center is perfect for hanging garments. A remarkable cabinet that will make the perfect addition to any space.

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

Good Antique Condition; General wear from age and use. Marking and distressing to case. Some light pitting to mirrors.

Dimensions

23.5"x82"x97"h