Louis XV walnut Provençal “panetière” – 18ᵗʰ century – South of France
Looking like a beautiful miniature cathedral, this carefully crafted little piece of furniture as sometimes thought to be an element of church furniture.
In fact, it is a highly prized food safe popular in Provence in the 18ᵗʰ century.
Hung on a wall, it was entirely lined with fabric so as to keep the rodents away from all the food that could be conserved: bread, cheese, saucisson, etc.
The elegant structure and the stylish decoration clearly indicate that this Provençal “panetière” was a wedding gift for a high society couple.
Reference : ME021
