Featured Armoire, French, 18th Century, Mahogany?

Hello Newbie here.

Can anybody help me with this armoire? My dad bought it 60 years ago and swore it was a gem. (Though he said this about a few things!).

I'm wondering if it is 18th Century French. The front of it is in great condition though it certainly has some issues too, particularly the feet. Carving looks very good and it has a lovely patina. But I'd love to hear some better opinions than mine. Of course I'd love to know the value, but I'm more interested in learning about it - not intending to sell.

Many thanks for your thoughts.

 

Interesting. Not an area I know anything about but... See the internet identifies this as "Normandy-style."

Debora

 

Thanks. So maybe French.

 

Yes, it is an 'armoire de mariage', or wedding armoire, from Normandy. It was meant for the dowry, if I remember correctly.
I think 19th century, rather than 18th.

 

Can't dispute AJ's assessment, as European furniture is not my area. Unfortunately, not a lot of value in today's market. 30 years ago, the value would be in the thousands. I think we are in the hundreds today.

 

As above. Many similars (with prices) to be found on the internet. But yours has particularly nice decoration.

Debora

 

Do you know what kind of wood? Fruitwood? prob not mahogany I guess. My wife says we have to sell - she doesn't like brown furniture and says it's cluttering up the place! Very much appreciate the answers - first time seeing this site and it looks like it's a great resource. Thanks

 

hold , don't sell yet !
It's beautiful........and has history !!
she doesn't like brown furniture...............
no one does.......... Yet !!

as mentioned above........ not the best time to sell this!

 

It is oak.

 

Do you have a spare bedroom where it can hide until your wife changes her mind?
If you still have the original shelves, it is great for storing things. Otherwise have shelves made.

 

Just to show how linen was often stored back in the day, this is an antique Dutch 'linnenkast':



Bedlinen was rolled up so it wouldn't have as many folds.
And of course your tipple and the best pieces of porcelain were kept in there as well, behind lock and key.

 

Amazing pic! thank you.