As the reign of Louis XIV transitioned to Louis XV (by way of the Regence period), French furniture transitioned from rectilinear pieces to asymmetrically carved offerings. This oak buffet is a beautiful example of the free-flowing nature of Louis XV. Hand-carved in Lorraine, France, circa 1750, the oak has some striking graining that is accentuated by the blonde finish to the wood, giving the buffet a warm, light brown color.

The thin quarter-round molding to the top overhangs the main body, softening the rectangular sides with shallow molding. Beneath are two doors carved with very asymmetrical panels featuring volute and barbed details in the deep molding. Large iron hinges allow the thick doors to open, revealing a full-length shelf fronted by a mullion adorned with a flowing floral vine. Below the mullion is a floral bouquet emanating from the thin recessed molding of the highly shaped apron. A pair of chamfered pilasters subtly embellished with a textured upper molding both terminate in a cabriole leg with a volute and pad foot (the back two feet are blocked). Our blonde oak buffet from Lorraine would make a wonderful addition to a dining room or bar area.

CONDITION: Very good antique condition, with minor nicks and losses. Some light age separations with traces of old fills. Two functional locks with two keys.