BRETON CABINETS

These are two oak and chestnut cupboards, two characteristic linen presses from the south of Cornwall, in the Douarnenez region. One dates back from the early 18th century, the other to the beginning of the 19th; and while history may have shaken the country in the time between the creation of these two pieces of furniture, the little story modestly continues its course. From one century to the next, everyday life doesn't change as quickly as political regimes. The persistence of traditions remains, from motif to use.

The motif is typically Breton, with these galettes, concentric circles made on a wood lathe, sometimes embellished with small leaves. The Maltese cross is common in this region, and this rich, cheerful, laughing decoration is the signature of northwest Quimper, a province that fosters the pride of wealthy peasant owners who like to show their success and their attachment to a living artistic tradition in their furniture. Its use echoes that of its original patrons. These linen presses, solidly anchored in strong frames, go hand in hand with the indispensable drawers that structure the furniture. The upper part holds the cloth, woven from linen and hemp threads stored in the lower part. The pride of the family, regional furniture carries the memories of generations. Grandparents' furniture imprints childhood memories on the young. As children grow older, they follow in the footsteps of their own ancestors, and the long-lasting wardrobe continues to preserve the fabrics and weave the threads of memory.

Until Galerie MICA and matali crasset developed design furniture specifically for early childhood, the family furniture alone bore the responsibility of transmission. Today, it takes childhood under its wing and opens its doors to it. It's by paying attention to what's old, by understanding what makes it what it is - the little and the big History, uses and techniques - that modernity is inspired, sometimes emancipated, but always dependent on what precedes it.

At a time when we need to slow down our consumption and stretch the life of our objects, antique furniture is making a comeback as a model of resilience, exemplarity and respect for time, materials, the craftsman's gesture and transmission from one generation to the next.

Text by Marielle Brie