Unlike their Italian counterparts who favored painted and inlaid motifs, French ebenistes during the Renaissance utilized elaborate carvings to embellish their furniture. A fantastic example of the French method of period Renaissance (1600s) furniture is this buffet with a light parcel paint finish (that was added more recently).

Both the apron and the frieze have several layers of molding that extend beyond the main body that when paired with the overhanging top, add additional depth to the rectilinear buffet. The light brown color of the wood has been accentuated with traces of white, cream, and gray that allow the nuances of the carvings to gain prominence. A pair of genii, depicted with wings and floral rinceaux tails, adorns the two belt drawers, each with a circular pull affixed to the front. Both drawers are flanked by carvings of a mascaron surmounting a rectangular leaf. Beneath the frieze molding are a pair of highly molded rectilinear doors that front a full-length shelf painted in light green, matching the interior of the drawers. The doors are flanked by pilasters adorned with a caryatid carrying a fruit basket on her head and another genius beneath with a foliate margent tail. Two block feet in the back and two front bun feet offer support to our highly detailed Renaissance buffet from the 17th century. It can be used wherever unique storage is needed, such as a dining room, entry hall, or living room.

CONDITION: Good antique condition with minor nicks, rubs, and slight age separations. Old touchups coupled with some more recent repair work. Filled area to top (see photos). Functional lock on doors, with key.