Delightful antique French Napoleon III to Belle Epoque era ebaniste apprentice or doll sized 16.5" miniature armoire with ornate carved doors & facade, shelved interior with drawer and wonderful visual & decorative appeal! Many of the antique doll collectors search for these old one-of-a-kind cabinetry maker's apprentice chests to use as furnishings, furniture for their doll houses or displays. They're sized about right, it's true, but they're really the "maitrise" or test, essentially, of the development of the apprentice as his skills are mastered. The small furniture is the assigned task so he can prove he has mastered both design, completion of various skills, and also the miniature production of the hardware he incorporates. Of course, this piece could just have been made for the doll collectors and enthusiasts and that's the fun of it, too bad these charming old pieces can't talk!
Good to very good condition, age considered. The most obvious 'addition' is the pale blue interior paper with cats... I've considered just removing it before photographing but decided to leave that decision up to the new owner, being cat people to a certain extent here there is some charm to it. Some chips, some rough spots along edges etc. and there is a small trim piece missing from the bottom of the right side. The lock and key do work but it doesn't quite secure the doors. See pictures for all measurements.
