Magnificent Renaissance Revival “Buffet de Chasse” in Carved Oak France or Belgium, circa 1880–1900 Material: Solid hand-carved oak Condition: Excellent overall; minor wear consistent with age. Original patina, detachable crest included. ⸻ Description A grand buffet de chasse of exceptional quality, richly sculpted in the Renaissance Revival (Henri II) style, epitomizing the artistry of late-19th-century French and Belgian cabinetmaking. The upper section features two deeply carved doors depicting hanging game birds within lush foliage — a symbolic celebration of the hunt and abundance. The lower section presents dramatic high-relief scenes of hunting dogs pursuing a fox in a forest landscape, rendered with remarkable anatomical realism and vigor. Between the upper and lower cabinets, the recessed serving shelf is supported by fantastical carved creatures — griffins with leonine features and feathered wings — motifs that recall the grotesques of 16th-century châteaux interiors. Twisted columns flank both stages of the cabinet, framing the exuberant carvings and adding architectural rhythm. The cornice and friezes are ornamented with Green Man masks, oak leaves, and scrolling foliage, representing nature’s eternal vitality — a recurrent Renaissance allegory. The piece retains its detachable crest, crowned with a carved hound’s head, completing the hunting narrative. ⸻ Artistic and Historical Context Such buffets de chasse were created for aristocratic or bourgeois hunting lodges and grand dining rooms, celebrating rural sport and nature’s bounty. The craftsmanship reflects the influence of the Mechelen School (Belgium) and Lyonnais ateliers (France), renowned for their virtuoso woodcarving and revival of Renaissance forms during the Third Republic era. The cabinet exemplifies the 19th-century fascination with historicism, blending mythology, nature, and craftsmanship into a single decorative statement. ⸻ Condition Report • Very good structural integrity and color uniformity. • Minor expected wear from age; no major losses to carving. • Detachable crest included. • Ready for installation or display. ⸻ Comparable References • Similar examples in the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, Paris. Also comes with a table and 3 chairs. The seat of the chairs need repair.