Exceptional Provençal Painted Chest of Drawers w/ Pastoral Figures Circa 1790–1810 - 33" x 45¾"

This truly exceptional painted wood chest of drawers from Aix-en-Provence, dating to the late 18th or early 19th century, embodies the poetry and warmth of Provençal craftsmanship. It features three full-width drawers with working iron locks, each drawer closing with its own key. The generous yet perfectly balanced proportions are animated by a sun-washed palette of olive green and golden ocher, subtly enlivened with coral accents along the moldings. The drawer fronts and side panels are hand painted with charming outdoor figures engaged in leisurely pursuits, their graceful gestures and delicate costumes lending the piece a narrative quality that feels both romantic and deeply rooted in everyday life. Scrolling foliage ornaments the smaller top drawer, framing the scenes with elegant, rhythmic movement.

The surface bears a beautifully layered patina, softened by time and use, with gentle rubbing at the edges and small nicks consistent with age. Remarkably, the painted figures remain fresh, lively, and expressive, with no repainting, a testament to the quality of the original decoration and its careful preservation. Painted furniture of this kind was a hallmark of Provençal workshops, where robust rural forms were transformed into objects of joy and color to brighten stone interiors. Scenes of courtship, music, and pastoral life reflect the enduring late-18th-century taste for romantic imagery, carried into the early 1800s with confidence and charm. Molded edges, bracket feet, and hand-brushed borders speak to regional craftsmanship, while the luminous decoration gives this chest a presence that feels both historic and effortlessly welcoming. It is a rare and captivating survivor, radiating the spirit, light, and romance of southern France.

This chest brings an inviting, story-filled presence to an entry, living room, or bedroom. Anchor it beneath a gilded mirror, use it as a charming bedside storage piece, or place it in a dining room to hold linens and silver, where the locking drawers keep treasured items secure. The gentle greens and ochers harmonize beautifully with plaster walls, natural linens, and stone or wood floors, adding warmth and true character without overwhelming a space. 

Condition and patina consistent with age.
Approx. overall 33" high x 45¾" wide x 22¾" deep
Approx. overall 84cm high x 116cm wide x 58cm deep