Polychrome Walnut Virgin with Serpent – 18th Century – Midi-Pyrénées – [ME116]

Polychrome Walnut Virgin with Serpent – 18th Century – Midi-Pyrénées – [ME116]

18ᵗʰ century, Midi-Pyrénées, Objects bearing history, Period furniture, Sculpture, Statuette, The treasure corner, Walnut, Wood species

Explore the iconic 18th-century polychrome walnut sculpture depicting the Virgin Mary triumphing over a serpent, symbolizing the Immaculate Conception. Standing gracefully with arms wide open on a half-globe, the Virgin crushes the serpent beneath her bare foot. The finely carved piece showcases intricate details, from the peaceful expression on Mary’s face to the polychromatic hues highlighting the mystical nature of the artwork. Uncover the hidden symbolism as the serpent holds an apple, representing the Virgin as the new Eve who, in the 17th century context, erases the transgressions of the first woman. The dimensions of this masterpiece are 56 cm in height, 32 cm in width, and a diameter of 21 cm. [Reference: ME116]

What characterizes this bronze chandelier from the 17th century is that it has never been converted to electricity. Everything here is original, and only the candles are adapted to its candle holders. Additionally, small vessels are intended to receive walnut oil and wicks to complete the decidedly intimate lighting setup.

Bronze Chandelier – Louis XIV – 17th Century – Quercy – [ME117]

17ᵗʰ century, Chandelier, France, Louis XIV, Metal, Midi-Pyrénées, Quercy, The treasure corner

In golden bronze, this midsize chandelier can hold candles at the top of the four candle holders that top its branches. As was practiced in the 17th century, four small vessels are arranged in the center to receive walnut oil and wicks to complement the original lighting setup. Below, a bowl is ready to absorb any potential overflow.

This authentic "paysan" rural piece of furniture, from around the foothills of Velay, is a testimony of the spirit of friendly mutual assistance among neighbours who went to one another's homes to do the "énoisage" all together during the late evening "velhada", sometimes improvising friendly little dances to the sound of clogs, "cabrettes" and accordions.

Larch wood table for cracking walnuts (énoisage) – 19th century – Haute-Loire – [MP051]

19ᵗʰ century, Auvergne, Country furniture, Country style table, Farmhouse table, Haute-Loire, Kitchen furniture, Popular art furniture, Table, The treasure corner, Wood species

A thick larch plateau from the foothill forests of Velay and, on each corner, kinds of amazing little hollows…Here we have a genuine “énoisage” table, perfectly designed to wedge the walnuts when snapping them with  the mallet called “tricote”, to prevent the nuts from rolling to the other end of the table.

Impressively sized, this fireplace plate from the renowned foundries of Périgord showcases traditional royal heraldry, featuring a crown surrounded by fleur-de-lis and pine cones, symbolizing longevity. Cast in 1644, the inclusion of this date in its design adds to its historical appeal and authenticity.

Royal Cast Iron Fireplace Plate – 17th Century – Périgord – [ME113]

17ᵗʰ century, Cast iron, chimney plate, fireplace accessory, Périgord, Period furniture

Impressively sized, this fireplace plate from the illustrious foundries of Périgord displays traditional royal heraldry – a crown surrounded by fleur-de-lis and pine cones, symbolizing longevity. Cast in 1644, the historical significance and authenticity are highlighted by this embedded date.