About the Item:

18th Century French Louis XV Style Buffet18th C. French Louis XV Style Buffet - Walnut Wood and Secondary Wood or European Oak with Pewter Hardware Ð Good Antique Condition Ð minor rubs and contraction to wood commensurate with age; drawer handles changed at a later date Ð Late 1700ÕsThis stately 18th C. French Louis XV style buffet is hand made with mortise and tenon construction strengthened with dowel pegs. It was originally from the Normandy Region of France where the carverÕs were renowned for their quality and exceptional carving. In this case, the carving is minimal but exceptionalÑthe panels on the doors are three levels deep. The inverted cyma molding surrounding the asymmetrical c-scroll outline has a tiny molding beneath it . There are double panels at the center. The carved heart on the cornice between the drawers is incised with diagonal lines and dots. The faux dormant center panel is fluted and attached to the left door. The hand carved foliate and floral detail on the apron is known as ÒpelicanÓ dŽcor, or an unusually shaped flower attached to a climbing plant symbolizing family.The woods used, Oak and Walnut, are exceptional. European Oak and Walnut were usually the choice for the primary wood during this time period. Here, the interior is all European Oak and the two exterior side panels are the same. Usually, these woods would have come from the ownerÕs land. The hardware is pewter and the key is original.This elegant Normandy buffet would have been commissioned by a family as one of the primary pieces of furniture in their home.H. 38 5/8" W. 49" D. 23 5/8".