Auvergne Wedding Box - Popular Art - Knife Carved Curiosity - 18th Century

Large BOX: carved with a knife, dating from the 18th century typical of mountain folklore.

Geographic IMPORTANCE and Consequence on works of popular culture:

(Mountains and even farm-houses are more naturally isolated by geography, relief, natural barriers, climate, access... where Romanization was slower and commercial and mercantile evolution too, the same one where the peddler did not go or rarely,
This is important in the development, style and manufacturing of these objects, which have been kept and remained influenced for a longer time by their ancient culture, traditions and knowledge).

Usually used in this size to store most often: trousseau, or delicate fabrics, lace, wedding dress, etc.

Mounted in pine panels: cut from the mass and fixed by small dovetails on the sides and forged nails and reinforcements on the underside, it is distinguished by its inverted trapezoid shape, with a curved lid, probably influencing and recalling the traditional domed chests emblematic of the central massif.

the set is decorated with wrought iron: a handle, hinges, nails, and a small period keyhole.
(Undoubtedly made or traded with the local blacksmith or farrier, often through the barter system)

These so-called “wedding” boxes: were in reality and above all, proofs of love, “symbol objects”, a present offered by a lover to his beautiful one. cut and sculpted by young shepherds/farmers for their family, their bride, they speak to them by symbol (knowing little how to write).
Made while herding animals or during the long winter months (harsh winter for 3/4 months).

They are not mercantile objects on the contrary, but rather unique solitary works, the fruit of a work of patience and filling. nor does it meet the criteria of productivity or competition in their manufacture, they are rather a first draft with spontaneity and adventure in the decor.

Made as we technically say "in planisculpture": with motifs sculpted using the bevel cutting technique, and the raised bottom. giving each piece a unique character and in particular not being inspired by the motifs of the great academic styles of classic furniture of the time.

Each box is a reflection of artisanal know-how and culture transmitted orally, imbued with simplicity, heart and authenticity and carrying within them the history and soul of the Shepherds of other times.

Its decoration, engraved with dry point and compass: (artisanal improvised with a piece of wood, iron and string), before undergoing deepening and precision work with a knife (small sharpened blade mounted on a handle, between the chisel and the knife).

geometric motifs: also partly borrowed in symbolism from primitive European art, even if they had more or less lost the link,
There we find: chevrons, wolf teeth, rosettes, casters, solar wheels, plant elements, trees of life... symbol of fertility, protection and beliefs.

And by comparison even less: the predominance of religious symbols compared to other domestic sculpted objects. because the boxes were mainly the prerogative of youth, more concerned with seduction, love and family than with faith.

Art and Symbolism in the motifs: their harmony, their meaning, their meaning, the values, the finesse of the incisions, and the imagination deployed in their creation give these Objects the title and place of a true WORK OF POPULAR ART.

Unlike simple: more crude furniture objects which are not embellished and decorated with symbolic motifs and which are rightly called only "popular objects" or brutalist art (which is often confused today with the reason for this reminder).

This model will appeal to: Art collectors, neophytes or lovers of unique objects, witnesses to the history of ancestral popular traditions.

Dimensions: H 31.5 cm - L 46.3 cm - D 32.4 cm

Beautiful patina and good overall condition: consistent with wear and the vagaries of time due to its age.

Note a few small defects: caused by use over several centuries. including this beautiful repair "an old graft" of very beautiful workmanship and practically invisible on the front of the lid see photos.
and on the other hand another repair a slot on the top next to the handle which was reinforced more recently by three plywood, but much less aesthetic. see on photos. (there is always a way to take back and remove the reinforcements).

Iconic objects: Ideal in a cabinet of curiosities or to enrich and enhance the interior of an unusual room full of symbols


                   - General conditions of sale -

    If possible, Payment should be made (+ or -) 2/3 days after the order.

      1st - 4 - Types of Payment accepted: (+ Transport-packaging costs depending on the area).

(1) - PAYPAL: Simple, Fast, Guarantee and insurance.
(2) - TRANSFER: Iban Bank: BPS FR76 1660 7002 7109 3346 0201 534. (recommend)
(3) - CHECK: Only French: ANTIQUE DEALER David SEGALA  3 Rue Fontanilles Bat f6 48000 MENDE-Occitanie. 
(4) - CASH: Advisor by hand, shipments are always at your own risk, we will not accept any complaints.

       - 5 packaging costs + transport :
(a)  France : €50
(b)  EU Union, Switzerland : €60
(c)  Eastern Europe (outside the EU and Switzerland), Norway, Maghreb : €70
(d)  Africa excluding Maghreb, Canada, United States, Near and Middle East : €80
(e)  Asia, Oceania, Rest of the World : €100

       2nd - 2 types of Shipping-Delivery possible:

1st) - By Carriers: DHL, Colissino, Poste... (always with Tracking Number)
         (The packages are always packaged by me (with Care and Overprotection) and entrusted to the carrier at (+ or -) 3/4 working days after payment into my account of the total with costs, Any customs duties requested by the country from the customer upon arrival are due by the buyer.

  2nd) - 3 Possibilities of personal delivery subject to collection in full or payment of Deposit.
         (issue of an essential receipt by return email and must be given upon delivery or collection).

(1) - Welcome you with joy to MENDE in LOZERE-Occitanie-France for a little stroll and collect your property (no fees).

(2) - For Merchants only I am on the Inter-Nations-Professional Bimonthly Unpackings of CIPOLAT-S.A. in Monptellier Parcs des Expositions HALL-B4 STAND-5315/16.  (Items can be collected from my stand 5315/16 before noon) no charge.

(3) - Possibility of possible delivery: by us in France and neighboring countries on request and delivery of movable objects in person, only for important and very fragile pieces. (and according to our availability and payment in full and in advance: price + transport).

         - Possible Discount: Discount granted to the Good customer or for a lot: on request by SMS message: 0680322750 or email:  segala.david.antiquaire48000@orange.fr 

                                       Yours sincerely David SEGALA