Exquisite Antique Bretons Style Church Bench
It is hard to know where to begin to describe such an incredibe piece of furniture! Everything about it is fabulous! To begin with the style is called "Breton's" because this type of furniture was manufactured in an area of France called Brittany, which is on the northwest coast. In this area they specialized in shipping and trade, because of their proximity to the ocean, of course. These pieces were made from about 1840 to early 1900's. One of the trademarks of this style is a semi-circle in a repetitive pattern, and it represents the helm of a ship. They are made of a deep dark oak, and completely hand carved and crafted. On this piece if you start with the top headpiece you will be in awe and wonder at the incredible carving here. There is a windmill on a hill, and two large trees on either side, with two men on either side of that playing their flutes. In the center you find the semi-circle that represents the helm of a ship. The carving just underneath that is another representation of the helm in the repetitive semi-circles. The back panel shows a man and woman in two different scenes in the countryside. The leaves of the massive tree above them are so detailed and deep that it almost seems real! On either side you see a tapered lathe-turned column with large finials on the top. I always love to see the native clothing they are wearing, with a wide collar for the women, and the wide folded back hat! On the front bottom apron notice that there are three different rows of carving, always representing the helm, and on the very bottom you see the helm in both corners--a pattern that is also repeated on both sides. The craftsmanship required to make such an incredible work of art is definitely top notch! I think it is a work and a wonder!! This is a piece for a museum, and will definitely dramatically increase in value in just a few short years, and continually through the generations. Imagine the glory of this piece sitting in your entry way! WOW!! What an incredible first impression it would give to friends and strangers alike! Or place it in your family room, and absolutely ENJOY! Notice that the seat opens up for storage of hats and gloves, or shoes, or linens--whatever! If you miss out on this bench, I can tell you that I will not find another one like this EVER. In another year, with luck I may find one that is similar, but this is truly a once in a life time chance. R17OC1098
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