18th century, France, Provence, Double-bodied wardrobe

18th century, France, Provence Double-bodied wardrobe Walnut wood, cm 200 x 136 x 55 This double-bodied walnut wardrobe is linked to the production of French and more precisely Provençal cabinet making; the characteristic furniture of this locality are elegant wardrobes with sinuous lines often derived from the Louis XV style manufactured with precious woods such as walnut, oak, but also cherry or pear. The present double-bodied wardrobe, open both in the lower and upper part, is characterized by a double door decorated with recessed panels. The two parts are divided by a horizontal compartment containing two drawers. The preciousness of the piece is guaranteed by the addition of six twisted columns placed to subdivide the doors and in the upper part as a support surface for two lateral eagles and a central double-headed eagle. The eagle, queen of the skies, has since antiquity assumed meanings related to power and victory, playing a very important role in the history of European symbolism, as well as the double-headed eagle, an eternal symbol of power. On the sides, the decoration becomes simpler, simple recessed but slightly raised panels.