Early 20th Century French Shop Counter w/ Recent Ivory Painted Finish - 42½" x 47¼"

This early 20th century shop counter, likely French, presents a rectilinear façade with classical detailing and a recent ivory painted finish. Crafted in pine, the front and sides are panelled with raised mouldings, flanked by fluted pilasters and shaped corbels that support a deep moulded top, all set on a plinth base. The working side offers practical storage with two rather deep small drawers fitted with metal cup pulls, an open cubby, and twin shelved compartments; the original doors have been removed.

Counters of this type anchored village stores across France in the early decades of the century. The restrained classical vocabulary of raised panels, fluting, and corbels reflects the lingering influence of late 19th century neoclassicism interpreted in provincial workshop practice. Cup pulls, compartmentalised storage, and a modest footprint suited general merchandise, patisserie, or pharmacy use, keeping small goods and paperwork close at hand. The later removal of the back doors is a common adaptation that opens the piece for display and service. 

Today, it makes an inviting home bar or serving console. Position it in a living room, dining area, or library with a mirror and a pair of sconces above, stock the shelves with bottles and stemware, and use the drawers for bar tools and linens. It also works behind a sofa or in a kitchen as a compact serving station, its quiet palette and classical lines blending easily with farmhouse, coastal, or transitional interiors.