A Carved Wooden Coffee Grinder Known As The “louis XIV”

A coffee grinder known as the “Louis XIV,” featuring a carved wooden body resting on a square base equipped with a small drawer designed to collect the freshly ground coffee.

The upper section is equipped with an iron grinding mechanism, operated by a long, angled crank ending in a wooden handle.

This type of grinder, traditionally known as the “Louis XIV grinder,” is among the earliest models of French domestic coffee grinders. Its emergence coincided with the spread of coffee in France beginning in the second half of the 17th century. Introduced into the customs of the Court and aristocratic circles during the reign of Louis XIV, coffee gradually became a sought-after beverage before its consumption became widespread during the 18th century.

The beans, which were roasted and then stored whole to preserve their aromas, were ground just before preparation. The grinder thus became a new household item.