The French Armoire has a charm that is unbeatable even in present times. So popular has been its design that several jewelry boxes down the ages have been inspired by their design and detail. The Latin word ‘armarium’ is where the French word Armoire was derived from.

Armoires came into being from what were originally a series of shelves that were built into the wall and closed with wings or doors. Gradually they became individual pieces that looked like a collection of chests that were stacked together with a series of doors to close them. Around the 17th century was when more attention was paid to the details on armoires.

In the beginning, these armoires were used in churches and monastries for religious purposes. The nuns used them for books and the priests used them in the sacristy for religious items like oil, vessels, and incense. There are still a few of these in existence like the 13th century oak piece in the Bayeux Cathedral in France

The Cathedral of Noyon also has another well preserved armoire from this period. In the Vestry of York, you will see a great example of the perpendicular designs of armoires. The way these armoires were decorated too began to evolve with time. People began to move from painting to carving on them.

Though Louvre had some great examples, the best ones are in the exhibits and museums of Cluny. The linen-fold was a very popular 16th century style of decoration for the armoire. England and America soon saw the arrival of the armoire. The armoire is classically a standalone piece of furniture, which is large and has double doors that are ornately carved.

Today, they are designed for a variety of storage purposes. There are pretty childrens’ armoires that are used as toy cabinets. You also have the entertainment armoire that is big enough to hold a TV and all its associated paraphrenalia.

Armoires are also used as crockery cabinets, linen cupboards, as book shelves and more. The jewelry armoire is perhaps the most beautiful of them. These can stand on their own or can be wall mounted as well. These wooden structures can be carved ornately and give you a great way to store and show of your collection.

There are several styles that you can look into. The legs of the cottage style armoire are turned out and the design inspired from the colonial era. Finished in semi-gloss, the wood of this armoire is simple yet elegant. Pieces inspired from antique armoires have turned out legs as well. The carving and the style of decor is hand crafted and beautiful.

The modern armoires resemble the classic versions in terms of shape but with a contemporary touch. Queen Anne style is popular for its hand renditions of scenery with roses and vines. Armoires have a wonderfully classic look to them and add to the beauty of your decor and your jewelry.

So what’s stopping you? Step out and look for the armoire that suits you best.

This article was written by Ruth D’Souza Prabhu of MarqART Gift Shop. Our jewelry boxes show unique wood grain patterns and colors assembled into beautiful designs of breathtaking beauty. A fine addition to your dressing table or as a gift. Please visit http://www.marqartgiftshop.com to browse & buy exotic marqart jewelry box that will give you a lifetime of pleasure!