Monumental French Louis Philippe period armoire handcrafted of solid walnut by skilled artisans in the Lyon region, renown for its superior production of armoires, having a chapeau de gendarme crown atop a pair of paneled doors with a large, carved wood escutcheon and original iron hardware and lock that open to reveal a spacious interior with three thick and sturdy shelves. Raised on a plinth base with pistolet feet. This impressive Lyonnaise armoire with its warm, rich patina, would have been prominently featured in a fine chateau. Because armoires were a very important part of the French household, little expense was spared in outfitting them with the finest hardware. Elaborate escutcheons, long ornate hinges, and even the keys were an integral part of the overall design of the armoire. Often, the hinges, lock, and key cost more to produce than the armoire itself. Massive walnut armoires such as this were generally reserved for the very wealthiest families. As styles changed, the armoire evolved into a smaller, more reserved cupboard, making these massive creations all the more important. 

First appearing under the French monarch Louis Philippe in the 19th century, the Louis Philippe style’s simple elegance and understated luxury continue to make it a popular choice today. Developing in the period following the French Restoration but preceding the Napoleonic era, the Louis Philippe style is unique in that it exhibits neoclassical as well as simplified Rococo Revival features; the design features soft, rounded silhouettes with minimal decoration, distantly recalling the organic inspiration behind much of Rococo. Aesthetically, the Louis Philippe style values a refined sense of opulence, realized through the use of subdued ornamentation. Louis Philippe pieces are as much at home in a traditional or modern home today as they were in a grand castle during the 19th century.

Dimensions:

h - 120"

w - 67" with crown; body w - 61"

d - 27"