19th Century Country French Bonnetiere ~ Cabinet from Normandie

19th Century Country French Bonnetiere ~ Cabinet from Normandie is a splendid example of rural craftsmanship following centuries of traditional styling, embellishment and joinery to create wonderful furnishings with a look unique to their region of the world.  In this example, dense, old-growth indigenous oak was employed to create the piece, with the hand-planed and chamfered planks carefully framed together for lasting beauty.  The trademark chapeau de gendarme crown, so named because of its resemblance to an 18th century policeman's hat, establishes the arched motif that is continued down into the door framework.  Long, unadorned panels at the top of the doors contrast with the finely carved upper and mid-level framework members, carved with stylized wildflowers and foliates, with complementary carvings on the lower door panels.  The gracefully contoured full width drawer that appears below the door is also lavished with beautiful foliates in relief, complemented by the elegantly contoured and carved apron below, flanked by scrolled legs.  The door is suspended with a brass key guard and exterior brass barrel hinges allowing the door to swing wide allowing easy access to the five adjustable shelves within, which create an abundant variety of storage opportunities.
Circa 1880s
Measures 84H x 33.5W x 18D