July 01, 2007

Antiques de Provence

We have reached the sunny south of France—warm days, cool nights, and muted colors of the earth. The musical Provençal accent charms us. Is that really French they are speaking?!

The quintessential Provençal piece is the panetière, an ornately carved piece which was either hung on the wall or was set on top of a pétrin, or dough table. The panetière was originally used to store bread. This one is an unusual demi-lune shape.

A nineteenth century miniature Louis XVI chest. This was the master work of the cabinet maker’s apprentice. This chest with working drawers was made in miniature to prove the apprentice had successfully mastered the art of parquetry.