A Normandy 'Armoire de Mariage'

An early 19th century French two-door'Armoire de Mariage' from the town of Bayeux, in Normandy finely haut-relief carved in blond oak. Traditionally given as a gift to a newly-wed couple, this 'marriage' Armoire is decorated with allegorical motifs, including Spring flowers (Youthfulness, fertility), farm-tending tools and harvesting tools (work and work-benefits), and the central motif on the pediment depicting a pair of cooing doves (love and tenderness). This armoire is internally fitted with its original shelves, and it retains the original lock and key. Armoires from this region are considered to be amongst the finest in Normandy. Area of Bayeux, Lower Normandy, circa 1840.