Uzès armoire with floral bouquets, late 17th to early 18th century
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16800 € (port +200€)
Armoires, Louis XIV, XVII

An Uzès armoire with a black background, featuring two opening doors. This wedding piece displays a lavish floral design accented by painted borders. The finely executed bouquets—alternating with other compositions in the small central panels—are reminiscent of 17th- and 18th-century Flemish floral still-life paintings.

The quality of execution, the composition, the specific flower varieties, and the color palette all echo the works of Dutch painters such as Ambrosius Bosschaert the Elder, Jan Davidsz de Heem, and Rachel Ruysch.

Identifiable species include narcissus, poppy, tulip, anemone, and cherry blossom. This exquisite, harmonious arrangement, with its soft and warm polychromy, stands out strikingly against the deep black background.

The armoire’s framework echoes this nature theme: flowers and foliage are depicted more subtly, serving to highlight the decoration on the doors.

The framing of the armoire echoes this natural theme: flowers and foliage are depicted more subtly to highlight the decoration on the doors.

It is reasonable to assume that the armoire dates from the same period as the painters who created these floral still-lifes, making it a fine example of early Uzès armoires. Indeed, the interior is lined with its beautiful original wallpaper, as are the two drawers, which feature large, irregular dovetail joints. The key and lock are original, and the hammered nail heads on the lock mechanism are clearly visible.
The black background—and specifically the lack of decoration on the sides of the armoire—serve as further indicators of its age. Later pieces often feature sophisticated ornamentation, sometimes added at a later date. The unfinished back panels also point to production in the late 17th or early 18th century. The simple, unadorned hinges provide additional confirmation.

It is also worth noting that this armoire comes from the estate of a Protestant family in southeastern France; the Uzès armoire originated in the late 17th century in regions with a strong Protestant presence.
This remarkably authentic piece has remained unaltered throughout its long history. It combines brilliantly executed decoration with rare integrity and an age confirmed by numerous details. It stands as a magnificent example of the earliest Uzès armoires.

Dating: Late 17th to early 18th century.


Height: 185 cm
Width: 124 cm
Depth: 58 cm