18th Century Country French Neoclassical Trunk ~ Blanket Chest

Description

18th Century Country French Neoclassical Trunk ~ Blanket Chest is a reminder of a bygone era in which none of … more 18th Century Country French Neoclassical Trunk ~ Blanket Chest is a reminder of a bygone era in which none of the modern conveniences we take for granted had been invented or developed! The trunk is considered the first cased furniture, and this example was designed to store large quantities of textiles and family keepsakes, including candles which were a valuable necessity and sometimes even needed to be locked up! Note the photos showing the separate lidded compartment inside where the candles would be kept. Useful as a surface as well, the artisans added a little carved detailing on the top for visual interest, as the piece would have been placed in the family room for all to see and access. Four raised carved panels appear across the front facade, depicting stylized birds and flora. Repeating notches were used to create a bordering design, which appears horizontally across the front above and below, as well as vertically on the corners and separating the carved panels. A cast brass key guard adds a nice touch, and the hinges were forged from solid iron by hand to literally last for centuries!
Circa 1780s
Measures 30.5H x 60W x 30.5D less