US$17,205.50 This is an antique Dutch Floral Marquetry Armoire, c. 1780 in date. It has been accomplished in burr walnut with exquisite floral marquetry decoration, and masterfully hand carved mouldings. The drawer linings are of solid oak, it stands on its original hand carved lion's paw feet and the handles and escutcheons are also original. The beautiful doors open to reveal a fully fitted interior with shelves and small drawers. The base has three large and capacious drawers which provide abundant space to store your finest items. This exceptional piece represents a fantastic example of 18th century Dutch cabinetry at its finest. Provenance: I purchased this fabulous piece from Ashwick Court the beautiful late 17th Century Grade II listed house at Ashwick, Oak Hill, near Bath, for which it was reputedly commissioned. Condition: Original and untouched - remarkable for its age. Dimensions in cm: Height 230 x Width 170 x Depth 63 Dimensions in inches: Height 7 feet, 7 inches x Width 5 feet, 7 inches x Depth 2 feet, 1 inch Armoire is a tall, freestanding cabinet with doors that hide shelves and drawers. This piece of furniture in its present form was devised by the French in the 17th century. The armoire is a derived from the humble chest, and the name comes from the Latin word "armorium" which was a chest for storing armor. Originally an armoire was used to store armor and weapons. Armoires were used to store personal belongings and treasures, which is why they were so massive in size. Tapestries, rugs, clothing and any and all belongings could be stored in armoires. Modern uses include storing personal items such as clothes, but today armoires often serve as entertainment centers, and for computer/home office storage. Burr Walnut refers to the swirling figure present in nearly...