Antique 19th C. Victorian Serpentine Walnut Burl Knockdown Armoire Wardrobe

Description

Impressive late 19th Century Victorian Knockdown Armoire. Made from walnut with ornately carved front featuring crotch walnut doors over a serpentine oxbow base with two drawers. The wardrobe opens to two shelves which could be removed in lieu of a hanging bar for clothing and garments.

With large full length doors, we often look at antique armoires as passageways to secret rooms or even different worlds. While most antique armoires don’t take us to a different dimension, they nonetheless add incredible charm and beauty to both new and old homes alike.

Before closets were built into rooms, a solid wood free-standing wardrobe or “armoire” (French for Wardrobe) was standard for storing clothes. However, not all could afford such a luxury, and many antique wardrobes belonged to the upper classes who owned more than one set of clothes.

Thus, on antique armoires from the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries, we often see artistic embellishments and luxurious details. Antique French armoires often have Rococo or Gothic carvings, mirrored doors and naturalistic carvings. These feminine elements on antique French armoires demonstrate a high level of craftsmanship and artistry afforded only by the rich.

The phrase Knock-down refers to the ability for these pieces to be easily disassembled and re-assembled. This allowed for these massive armoires to be able to shipped hundreds of miles and fit up the narrow staircases and winding hallways of the Victorian and preceding eras.

Condition

Good Antique Condition; gentle wear from age and use. Light marking and edgewear. Screw in crown at the center support

Dimensions

56" x 23" d x 84 1/2"