Early 20th-Century French Butcher’s Block Top - 27½"

Handsome and substantial, this early 20th-century French butcher’s block top is crafted in _bois de bout_ (end-grain hornbeam), where short sections of wood are cut across the grain and tightly fitted together to form an exceptionally hard and durable surface. The individual blocks are compressed within a surrounding plank frame, reinforced at the corners with metal plates to prevent movement and maintain the mass under years of cleaver work. Its pale honey tone has mellowed with age, and the irregular surface bears deep knife scoring, old stains, and gentle shrinkage checks, testament to decades of service in a traditional charcuterie or butcher’s shop. Once part of a larger freestanding block, it remains richly weathered and full of authentic character.

Today, this piece adds authentic character to kitchens, cellars and pantries. Its subtly uneven surface lends itself to grounded, textural arrangements with recipe books or herb baskets that do not require perfect flatness. Set on a counter, it brings warmth and texture to a contemporary space; mounted on a low custom base, it transforms into a rustic coffee or side table.