Walnut Armoire From Rennes

Walnut Armoire from Rennes

A period antique double "Chapeau de Gendarme" armoire made of walnut wood (and secondary woods) from the area around Rennes, Brittany, France. It has hand carved decorative motifs-signed by cabinet maker on center front: 1786 Joseph Bertin. The condition is appropriate to the age of the armoire. It is in good antique condition.

This exceptional and rare French Double Chapeau de Gendarme or “double hat” armoire has incredibly detailed yet simplistic hand carving. The carving is done in light relief and incising, giving an overall impression of straight lined simplicity. It is said that perhaps the finest Country French armoires were made around Rennes in Brittany, where skilled carvers preferred stylized flowers, branches, interlacing vines and shells interspersed with c-scrolls in symmetrical patterns.  The carver’s name and date, incised in the central attached panel, shows the nature of the Breton cabinet makers.  This piece is for the discerning antique lover.

H=84 3/4, W=60 1/2, D=21 (includes crown)

Please contact us for more information, photos, or video.  Thank you, Le Louvre French Antiques

http://www.vimeo.com/3694285