Superb French Normandy Marriage Armoire

A magnificent, French, late 18th century marriage armoire from Normandy. Superbly crafted in oak and fruitwood with skillful and intricately carved decorative elements. A marriage armoire was traditionally gifted to a daughter at birth by her father - the armoire would be used to collect and store her trousseau eventually accompanying her to her new home when married. The carved motifs depict fecundity and longevity - the carved, wreathed olive leaves down the outside edges are particularly charming. Normandy has traditionally been considered " the bread basket " of France, wheat is a dominant crop in the area - the wheat sheaves denote the region as well as symbolise fecundity. The carved serpentine doors open to display shelves with complementary serpentine shaping. A stylish and spectacular piece - this beautiful armoire would grace any modern home or interior whilst providing copious and practical storage.