Early 19th-Century Provençal Walnut Flour Box 'Farinère' - 18"

This Provençal walnut flour box, dating to around 1800, features a charming hand-carved décor of a filled basket adorned with delicate flowers and a ribbon. The elegant silhouette is defined by a peaked top with round finials, while the front panel showcases a beautifully rendered floral motif. Designed for functional storage, it includes a practical sliding panel at the base for easy access. The wood has developed a warm, rich patina over time, enhancing the piece’s rustic simplicity and historic charm. 

In 18th and early 19th-century Provence, farinères like this were essential in the kitchen, used to store flour while keeping it protected from pests and moisture. Crafted from solid walnut, a favored wood in Provençal furniture for its durability and fine grain, such bins reflect the region’s tradition of practical yet decorative household pieces. The carved floral basket motif embodies the pastoral beauty of rural France, a common theme in local craftsmanship, where everyday objects were often enriched with artistic detailing.

Today, this farinère brings character and authenticity to a country or farmhouse-style interior. It can be displayed in a kitchen for both charm and functionality, complementing aged wooden countertops, ceramic dishware, and woven baskets. Alternatively, it can be repurposed as a mail or key holder in an entryway, adding a touch of heritage to modern spaces. Its timeworn patina and artisanal detailing make it a unique decorative element, seamlessly blending with rustic, vintage, or even minimalist décors.