French Painted Pine Buffet a Deux Corps

A handsome and sizable solid oak buffet a deux corps (in two sections) with Provincial charm from 19th century France. This four door case antique is split into two bodies: a deeper lower body and a more narrow but tall upper body. The upper cabinet is crowned with a molded cornice above imaginative carvings in the frieze depicting swags and hanging tassels, more in the Louis XVI taste. The upper doors are delightfully paneled and conceal a spacious interior with two removable shelves, approximately 13" deep. The lower paneled doors open to reveal a space with a single removable shelf, approximately 18" deep. Both sets of doors contain functioning locks and feature scrolling iron escutcheon plates. Two keys are included. All doors are supported by steel barrel...

A very unique French Empire 19th century buffet, or desserte server, in demilune profile and more recent painted finish of uncertain age. The top surface is a handpainted faux marble that is nearly all black except for delicate wisps of smoky gray veining. In the frieze are three drawers: one in each corner that swings outward at an angle, and one wide drawer in the center, all using lion-motif ring pulls. The case is washed in an ethereal tone of French gray with matte texture and mottled variation blending streaks of white, gray, and blue pigment that may just as easily blend with Directoire and Gustavian tastes than the opulence of Empire. Carved wood caryatids in ebonized (painted) effect flank the pair of doors at center, which open in tandem by working lock and key. Inside the case are two shelves at different depths which could be perfect as a dry bar or dining room storage...