Extensive Hand Carved Relief Motifs; European Oak and Quartersawn European Oak. - Condition:  Excellent – Minor rubs - Circa 1900
This magnificently hand carved antique French marriage deux corps has its origins in Rouen .  It is a marriage armoire given to the couple from the bride’s parents.   The extensive ornamentation has been hand carved out of European ­oak.  The motifs of marital attributes are:  a pair of love birds within a garland of flowers and fruit; and, the quiver with arrows (for piercing the heart with love) crossing a flaming torch (fire of love).  Specific attributes to the bride or groom are the violin, bow, and sheet music found within the ovals on the doors and the apron. Also note the high relief delicacy of the floral sprays decorating the tops of the doors.  Separately carved petals in relief of some of the tiny flowers i.e., lily of the valley, reflect the deft skill in carving and attention to detail of the cabinetmaker.