An important "Armoire de Mariage"

A 19th century French solid oak 'Armoire de Mariage' (Wedding Armoire) from the area of Normandy, decorated with finely carved haut-relief foliate, flowers and fruit motifs. Traditionally given as a gift to a newly-wed couple this marriage Armoire is decorated with carved motifs representing allegories, including Spring flowers (for Youthfulness, fertility), farm-tending tools and harvesting tools (for farm work and work-benefits), and the central motif on the pediment depicting an overflowing basket of fruit (for abundance). Internally fitted with shelves. Retaining the original lock and key and fitted with a hand-made Florentine key tassel. Armoires from this region are considered to be amongst the finest in France. Area of Rouen, Normandy, circa 1870.