The motifs of this rocking cradle from the 1600s are exceptionally ornate, with the rich brown patina of the walnut wood making the carvings even more impressive. Known in France as a berceau, the Late Renaissance bassinet is adorned with numerous winged cherubs, symbolically offering protection and blessings to the infant inside.

Both long, rectangular sides have two detailed panels, each depicting an angel with stylized foliate wings and scrolled tendrils that form a pierced cartouche set inside a rectangle of bead and reel. The ends are more trapezoidal, but just as beautifully carved, with a geometric shape in the center, surrounding a circle of bead and reel. More bead and reel embellish the irregular hexagon, which also has foliate tips outside the open circle. Four more winged cherubs complete the scene (although one side is missing a face at the top), before transitioning into an integrated curved wooden rocker at each end.

Although capable of supporting an infant, current safety standards preclude our 17th-century walnut rocking cradle from being used as originally intended. However, the modern applications are numerous, as the cradle would make a unique blanket storer, firewood holder, open-top doll chest, or indoor planter.

CONDITION: Good antique condition. Minor nicks and losses, with a few missing motifs. Light age separations. The floor has been added more recently.