Carved Antique Cabinet, French Brittany Folk Scene

Brittany or Bretagne is a maritime province of northwest France. Formerly a separate country, the "Breton" language is still spoken. Famous for their cultural traditions and distinctive dress and wooden shoes, the local hand-carved furniture has outstanding workmanship, using native local hardwoods with picturesque traditional motifs.

Heirloom furniture traditionally descended with the daughters of a family as part of their dowry and served to store her needlework, pewter and silver.

The original finish is excellent with glowing warm antique patina and a revarnished top surface. There are minor shrinkage cracks from age, losses around the base and mars at the edges, see photos. Drawers are hand dovetailed and hardware is original.

This dowry cupboard has a spectacular hand carved scene of village life with a friendly serenading musician with a lute, and three dimensional figures, some bearing gifts, telling a tale that is interesting to speculate upon.

Expertly carved in high relief of solid chestnut and oak, there are cornucopias filled with fruit. A rear gallery could hold a family charger or platter. Truly outstanding artistry from the 1890's, this cupboard was crafted by a very talented country cabinetmaker. Perspective in the scenic panel is particularly impressive.

This traditional folk antique disassembles for easier moving, dimensions are 4' 11" wide, 21" deep, 7' 10" tall and the base cabinet is 38" high.

Item # G-C2066