Known as an homme debout Malouin, this gorgeous cabinet from Saint-Malo, France, has luxurious and deep carvings paired with brass fittings. Hand-carved in oak, circa 1700, the turned pilasters that flank both doors indicate a style of Louis XIII, as does the deep, projecting crown that is adorned with two layers of crenellation. Both the crown and the apron at the bottom have angular corners that protrude beyond the rest of the molding.
The imposing and impressive piece, which stands roughly seven feet tall, would have most likely been commissioned by a wealthy household in the province of Brittany, as evidenced by the opposing spirals of the pilasters (only very high quality furniture had turned elements like this, as it was easier to carve them left to right). In between the colonettes are two doors with massive octagonal panels with many layers of molding, including two tiers with undulations. The doors are separated by two additional layers of undulating molding that form the edges of an elaborate drawer. Elements include three geometric carvings with even more rolling ornamentation surrounding brass floret pulls and a foliate faux key plate. The ends of the drawer, which are aligned with the crown/apron protrusions and the pilasters, have diamond point panels, which are another hallmark of Louis XIII furniture.
Influenced by Dutch mariner carpenters living in Saint-Malo (similarities to beeldenkast from 17th century Holland are present), our homme debout Malouin would make an incredible statement piece for an entryway, bedroom, or kitchen. Pieces such as these were not produced on an industrial level, making them rarer than armoires that were pervasive in subsequent periods of French history.
CONDITION: Strong antique condition. Nicks, losses, age separations, and rubs, as seen in photos, commensurate with age and use. Old minor repairs, and possible alterations. Two functioning locks, each with their own key. The back wall has some small holes, as this was most likely used as an electronics’ cabinet more recently.
