The original construction of this buffet from Provence, France, dates to circa 1760.  It has been finished in a beautiful, parcel paint white with cream and gray accents. Hand-carved during the Louis XV period, the original dark brown finish can still be seen in the interior (please see detailed photo).

Two square doors with asymmetrical panels surrounded by chamfered molding open on iron hinges to reveal a full-length shelf. Both doors have similar carvings of a gadrooned leaf set inside curled leaves with volute terminals. The mullion features two margents that originate from a gadrooned leaf with a volute base. An additional foliate margent with a gadrooned leaf center runs beneath the double arbalete cavetto molding of the top. A similar carving graces the highly shaped apron, although the lower embellishment is much grander, with a larger center leaf. The back two feet are blocked, while the front two consist of roquillard legs over concave volute feet.  These types of carved motifs were typical for furnishings coming from Provence.

Our 18th-century painted buffet from Provence can be placed in the dining room, offering storage of unused service pieces and linens. It would also make a lovely storage piece for a kitchen or hallway.

CONDITION: Good antique condition. Door closures now magnetized. Some normal age separations and old woodworm, mostly to the top. Minor losses and old restorations, including the interior shelf, which has an age separation, but has been securely nailed in place. The painted finish is not original and was added within the last 50 years.