During the reign of Louis XV in the 1700’s, French menuisiers were skilled wood workers that specialized in solid-wood case storage pieces, such as this buffet from Provence. Hand-carved in walnut wood using round dowel construction, the exquisite motifs are full of life and movement typical of Louis XV furniture.

With four cabriolet legs on whorl feet, the handsome walnut buffet has a tall and powerful stance, which meshes well with the polished steel hardware. An arbalete shaped top with quarter round molding hangs over the full-length drawer below. The drawer front is adorned with a pair of shaped recessed panels with drop handles flanking a quatrefoil, all of which are filled with an open latticework mount. A pair of large, full door length hinges are affixed to the doors beneath the drawer, which open to reveal a full-length shelf. Both doors are embellished with highly shaped panels with several layers of molding, as are the two side panels. The sides are separated from the front façade by a pair of foliate margents, set within thin molding, which is also seen on the mullion between the doors. A sprawling floral margent graces the sinuous front apron.

Originally used in dining rooms for storing service pieces, the flat top also allowed prepared food to be displayed during meals. Today, our 18th century walnut buffet from Provence can still be used in the same manner, as antique buffets are a desired accessory in traditional dining rooms. It can also be placed in a living room or anywhere else extra storage space is needed.

CONDITION: Good antique condition with minor nicks, rubs, and age separations. Traces of old wood worm damage, which necessitated fills and replaced sections of wood (see photos). Two functioning locks each operated by a separate key.