French, Faux Bamboo Armoire with Mirrored Door
19th Century, France
Dimensions: 41" W x 17 1/2" D x 89" H
Inside shelf 14" D
See our other listings for the matching bed.
This authentic French faux bamboo armoire dates to the late 19th century and was crafted in pine, stained to mimic the warm tone and nodes of natural bamboo, a look that became highly fashionable in France around 1880. The case follows classic Louis‑Philippe proportions, with a tall, narrow silhouette framed by turned faux‑bamboo corner posts and moldings that outline the door, drawer, and cornice.
At the top, an ornate pediment with finials and a central turned urn adds architectural presence, echoing the cresting seen on fine French country and provincial examples from this period. Below, a single full‑length door is fitted with a mirrored panel (the original glass is broken and will need replacement) and retains its decorative iron escutcheon and handle. Inside is one fixed and removable shelf, providing generous storage for linens, folded clothing, or use as a petite bibliothèque, while a dovetailed lower drawer offers additional concealed space.
The armoire still wears a handsome, lived‑in finish with the soft sheen, minor surface scratches, and small interior wood losses expected of a working 19th‑century piece, all of which contribute to its character rather than detract. The door frame and carcass are solid and ready for a new custom‑cut mirror.
Provenance and style notes:
Faux bamboo furniture was part of the French fascination with Asian‑inspired design in the second half of the 19th century, and armoires of this type would originally have furnished a stylish provincial bedroom or dressing room.
For today’s interiors, this versatile piece functions beautifully as a wardrobe in a room without built‑in closets, as a linen press in a hallway or bath, or even as a statement storage cabinet in a living room or guest suite. Its tall profile, mirrored door, and distinctive faux‑bamboo detailing add warmth, height, and a touch of Continental romance to both modern and traditional settings
Notes:
- The original mirror was damaged and needs to be replaced.
- The crown is not original. It is matched from another armoire and can be fit and secured
- There is one shelf, more can easily be added.
Priced and Selling 'as-is'
Please inquire about options for the restoration.