When antique furniture is bleached, such as this 18th century walnut four door buffet from Lyon, France, it allows the wood grain and carved elements to become focal points. Notice the thick moldings above and below the doors, as well as the turned half columns that flank the doors: these are hallmarks of a Louis XIII style furnishing.

The thick crown features several layers of molding (above a crenellated border), matching the depth of the skirt at the bottom. In between are four doors and two drawers, all with raised cavetto cornices. Both sets of doors, which have canted corners, open on iron hinges to reveal a full-length shelf. The drawers are nestled between protruding moldings, which helps offset the rectilinear nature of the cabinet (another hallmark of Louis XIII). Interestingly, only one drawer locks, with the right side having an ovate handle in place of the keyhole.

A stout piece of furniture that is supported by two ¾ bun feet in the front and two block feet in the back, our 4 door walnut buffet from the 1700’s has a commanding presence. Well-suited for any room that needs storage, such as a game room or living room, it would also make an extraordinary pantry in a kitchen.

CONDITION: Good antique condition, with wear commensurate to age and use, including minor nicks, losses, and age separations. Traces of the original finish in some areas with old wood worm holes. Old fills and repairs. The three locks (all with a unique key) are functional; however, the key must be inserted accurately on the lock of the bottom doors.