Monumental Neogothic French Antique! Late 19th century Decorative Art (Furniture History).

The flamboyant gothic or high gothic style of the 15th century is a uniquely French, anti-classical style. It was revived throughout the 19th century, sometimes faithfully copied, sometimes reinterpreted and even pushed to new aesthetic heights.

This eccentric piece is a late 19th century exaggeration of a 15th century « dressoir » from the French “dresser la table,” or to set the table. It is a piece from medieval interiors which were not like our contemporary room layouts and uses today. Nevertheless it is a piece associated with feasting, the dining hall, displaying platters and locking away food.

In the repertoire of finer neogothic pieces, decorative art pieces which differ from the more everyday neogothic pieces made during the late 19th century, this piece stands out for its bewilderingly profuse decor, size and flare.

Many thanks to all viewers and subscribers,

Cole