French armoires from Provence are considered rare, and are differentiated from other French provinces’ characteristics by conspicuous high and low relief of the frieze carving, rigorous pierced carving of their aprons, and in Nimes, the front panel fields were left unadorned.

This exquisite Nimoise wedding armoire made in the heart of Provence has been hand carved with ornamentation representing the attributes of marriage, as well as having characteristics particular to Nimoise cabinetmakers.  The Transitional Period was between Louis XV and Louis XVI which meant furniture had ornamentation from both periods.  The apron and dormante ornamentation of this Nîmes armoire includes a carved tureen derived from the Greco-Roman urn, a motif found during the reign of Louis XVI. Therefore, while keeping the popular Louis XV design for the carcass, this cabinetmaker adopted new neo-classical decorative elements. The frieze features a pair of doves surrounded by an oak leaf wreath which symbolizes fidelity. The basket of fruit symbolizes prosperity, and the ears of corn and  vine branches for fecundity.  The pierced apron rests in between two pierced acanthus leaf c-scrolls and foliate vines with more pierced c-scrolls. This beautiful walnut wood armoire from Nimes will complement any décor.

Condition:  Minor rubs, nicks, age separations to wood commensurate with age.  Tip of one leaf missing.