catalog text
FRENCH PROVINCIAL CARVED OAK "BUFFET DE CHASSE" WITH THICK GRAY MARBLE TOP
With a rich patinated surface and old blue painted interior | circa 1860
Item # 403PQN18W
An elegant "buffet de chasse" constructed of solid oak, the sideboard cabinet features a pair of double doors in the center that open to reveal a single adjustable shelf flanked on either side by inverted doors that open to give access to a single adjustable shelf fitted to the curved space.
The interior is painted with a worn and rather old sky-blue paint, a hue that gives it a touch of modernity to the warm honey hue patina of the oak primary surfaces. Situated over the buffet is an absolutely stunning gray marble top with a shaped edge that is cut to conform to the curvature of the cabinet - it is notable for its vivid vein profile, the sheer mass of it with an unusual thickness more typical of pieces from the late 18th century, and the exquisite condition it presents in.
The cabinet is raised on a bracket-foot base with a scroll-cut apron that echoes the carved flourishes of the door panels.
A very fine acquisition that is made to last many lifetimes, it remains relatively young and if well-cared for will likely continue to serve for another century.
Measurements: 40 1/4" H x 25" D x 73 3/4" W
Condition Report: Old shrinkage cracks throughout, nice old patinated surface with age appropriate wear, blemish and staining; some speckling and more accute wear to the feet; a few old patches to the surface (note spliced molding on one door and patch of molding on same door); doors have a slight outward bow to them from shrinkage across the grain over time; old blue painted interior is not original but is rather early - the medial shelf in the center is an old salvaged shelf made to match the interior, having a cutout at the back; no key, locks untested; a very fine presentation.