Mid-20th Century Folding Stair-Form Florist’s Display Stand

This mid-20th century French florist’s display is formed as a folding stair-style plant stand in softwood painted a pale grey-white. The elongated stepped silhouette features five deep slatted tiers rising gradually to the top platform, with solid triangular sides and a hinged rear support that folds flat for storage. The surface shows layered old paint with weathered wear, mossy garden staining, and scattered losses, all consistent with years of outdoor use,  while remaining sturdy and fully functional.

 Originally used outside florists’ shops and market stalls to display cascading plants and flowering pots, the tiered form allowed each arrangement to be viewed clearly from the street, while the slatted construction helped drainage after watering. Lightweight yet sturdy, it could easily be folded away at the end of the day.

 Ideal in a conservatory, greenhouse, or covered terrace, it creates a dramatic display for trailing ivy, terracotta pots, and seasonal blooms. Indoors, it can also be repurposed as a sculptural shelving piece for baskets, books, or folded linens, bringing rustic French garden character to country, farmhouse, or coastal interiors.