Valances, known in French as cantonnieres, are types of cornices used in window treatments. A single valance would be affixed to the wall above a window. Curtains would be attached to the valance, allowing the fabric to gracefully hang in front of the panes.

These long valances have been gilded in a lustrous gold. In the center of each shaped front is a large foliate shell surrounded by scrolls and flowers. Each crest was carved separately from the valance and attached via wood screws. Our French giltwood valances can still be used as originally intended, hung above a pair of windows. The valances can also be repurposed and hung above a bed, functioning as a bed crown. At 88 inches long, they are large enough to fit a queen, king, or California king size bed.

CONDITION: Wear commensurate to age and use with old touch ups. Light rubs and age separations. Minor losses to gilding, revealing traces of red bole and gesso. Old nails and eyelets are still attached to the back for hanging purposes.