Originally hand-carved in the early 1800s in Normandy, France, this oak bibliothèque has been hand-painted more recently in greige and white. The neutral colors allows the bibliothèque to be paired with a variety of color palettes. Both panels of the rectangular doors feature chicken wire grillage, giving the bibliothèque additional character, while allowing the painted interior with three full-length shelves to be seen with the doors closed.

The breadth of the crown is accentuated by the twisted fluting and bead and reel carvings that separate the ogee molding and deep cavetto cornice. Beneath the crown is a carved basket, overflowing with fruit, that sits atop a foliate corbel with a leafy tassel. Fruited margents extend in both directions, running above the top of the thick molding of the doors. Three large iron hinges support each door, which has a central leaf cartouche encircled by a fluted oval border and more fruited margents. The asymmetrically shaped chicken wire panels are each surrounded by several layers of molding and carvings of more margents, accompanied by a large, curled leaf (on the top panel) and a C-scroll (on the bottom panel). Four block feet can be seen beneath the thick plinth with a cavetto molding. Our painted bibliothèque from Normandy would be a great addition to a library, living room, or office.

CONDITION: Very good antique condition. Minor nicks and losses. Light age separations. Functional lock with key. Finish is not original to furniture, but was performed by artisans in France.