"Large Ardèche Chestnut Berle – 17th Century"
Traditional chestnut carved from a chestnut trunk, according to the customs in force in the mountainous regions of Ardèche and Gard in the 17th century. This monoxyle piece of furniture, with a flat front and rounded body, opens with a high door concealing three interior shelves, and with two small shutters in the lower part. The lower part historically contained a hiding place, sometimes used during periods of religious tension. The work is rustic and utilitarian, with nailed joints and original forged ironwork (hinges, pull rings). Wood with beautiful grain, old use visible on the fittings and the door.