A truly beautiful piece of 19th century French furniture, this oak armoire was hand-carved in Normandy. The original finish was whitewashed at some point, giving the armoire an antique white color with undertones of cream and gray. A bluish-gray color has been applied to the interior (which has two full-length shelves), offering a bit of contrast to the chalky exterior.

The carved motifs of the armoire are quite amazing, with several of them extending beyond their natural borders. Notice how the large floral bouquet at the top, which has been carved in relief on top of fruit and floral margents, extends upwards, concealing part of the crown above. There are a pair of smaller floral groupings just beneath that overlap the raised cavetto moldings that surround the two doors.

Various foliate carvings can be found on the armoire, starting with the large overhanging crown with protruding shoulders. A repeating foliate pattern can be seen near the top, over a chamfered edge with an egg and dart border above carved leaf tips. The mullion that separates the two rectangular doors has additional leaf tips, acanthus margents, and tripartite leaves. Both doors have a foliate margent and leaf tip cartouche separating two asymmetrical panels. Interestingly, the oval medallion in the center of the cartouche is carved with an inward slant while depicting a classic vase on a pedestal surrounded by fruit and flowers.

Our whitewashed oak armoire from Normandy can be paired with just about any interior design style. Perfect for any bedroom setting, the armoire could also be placed in a game room or living room and used as an entertainment center. The upper shelf of the interior can hold up to a 55” monitor.

CONDITION: Good antique condition with wear commensurate to age and use, including age separations and a bend to one of the panels that makes up the interior floor. Light buildup with minor nicks and rubs. Functioning lock with key.