Furniture from the Louis XV period is known for having lively elements inspired by nature. This painted Louis XV style buffet, which was hand-carved in Provence, France, circa 1890, features sprawling foliate margents and a vase with a towering flower arrangement. The blue-gray painted finish was added more recently, as was the white paint that highlights the motifs and moldings.

There are two drawers assembled with dovetail joinery and iron pulls in the belt beneath an overhanging cavetto molding. Both drawers have scrolled carvings with foliate margents, which are also seen on the long, shaped panel that runs beneath and in between the drawers. Two doors with subtly sloping top edges open on iron hinges to reveal a full-length shelf. Each door is comprised of a single asymmetrical panel with recessed molding and pierced escutcheons (which are also seen on the drawers).

In between the doors is a tall, eared vase holding a leafy flower arrangement and surrounded by more scrolled borders. Another vase has been carved on the arbalete apron, this time a cartouche of a squatty, lobed vessel with a foliate lid. Additional foliate margents embellish the apron, which terminates in two front cabriole legs with pad feet. The two back feet are blocked, reflecting the rectilinear panels on the sides of the buffet. Our painted Louis XV style buffet is of a relatively large size and has a unique and attractive finish.  It will be a focal point of any room in which it’s placed.

CONDITION: Good antique condition with minor rubs and losses to paint. The painted finish is not original, having been added more recently. The key works the functioning lock, but it has suffered losses. Please see photos for details.