Antique woodwork: the art of French decoration

Specialist in woodwork in Villeneuve-d'Ascq, Rémy Motte specializes in French creations from the 17th and 18th centuries. Cabinetmakers by training, we are passionate about researching ancient materials. Discover our wooden furniture (old doors, old fireplaces, old parquet floors, bookcases, etc.) and contact our old furniture specialists for any additional request.

Discover our selection of items currently available for sale:
Wood paneling

Antique woodwork is a true testament to French excellence in the mastery of decorative arts.

Sourced from historic residences and castles, they offer unmatched character. For centuries, whether patinated, painted, gilded, in natural wood, or polychrome wood, they have uniquely ennobled spaces. Each molded and sculpted wood panel tells the story of a period in our history that gave its name to a style. These heritage elements remain timeless. They can be revived in classic interiors or, in touches, can be combined with contemporary designs.

Styles and inspirations of woodwork through the ages

Louis XIII woodwork – the authenticity of the late 16th and 17th centuries : Inspired by Greco-Roman antique art, these woodworks are characterized by guilloche moldings, twisted columns, diamond points, and richly worked cabinets. The most beautiful examples were painted in polychrome with mythological scenes.

Louis XIV woodwork – the majesty of the Grand Siècle : A symbol of great French classicism, these woodworks stand out with symmetrical motifs and meticulously sculpted details. Made from noble woods like oak and walnut, they are often adorned with gilding and refined sculptures featuring shells, acanthus leaves, palmettes, lambrequins, mascarons, and trophies. They reflect the splendor of the reign of the Sun King, representing France’s radiance during this great era.

Regency woodwork – the balance between rigor and lightness : Lines soften with the appearance of curved and arched shapes and motifs inspired by nature, such as acanthus leaves, sunflowers, and chinoiserie. They mark the transition toward the Louis XV style.

Louis XV woodwork – curves, elegance, and refinement : Influenced by Italian Baroque art, the Louis XV style is distinguished by its graceful curves and counter-curves, interwoven with floral motifs or sculpted arabesques. It stands out for its asymmetry.

Louis XVI woodwork – the return to symmetry and clean lines : Inspired by antiquity, they adopt a sober and structured style, defining a classic and balanced decoration. In this neoclassical style, you’ll find laurel leaf motifs, fluted columns, Corinthian capitals, Greek geometric patterns, interlacing, heart-shaped designs, and pearls.

Directoire woodwork – elegant sobriety : Marked by graceful simplicity, the Directoire style focuses on sober lines and refined decoration in the Pompeian style.

Empire woodwork – grandeur inspired by antiquity : With imposing motifs and sculptures inspired by the Roman Empire, this style serves the imperial prestige of Napoleon I. Following Napoleon Bonaparte’s campaign in Egypt, elements borrowed from Egyptian art appear, such as sphinxes, griffins, stars, bees, and imperial eagles.

Restoration woodwork – the legacy of revisited classicism : The sober forms of the Empire style are retained, accompanied by a return to curves with the introduction of touches of lightness and softness in the shapes. The Romantic period reintroduces the neo-Gothic style.

Napoleon III or Second Empire woodwork : This period revisited the great styles of the 17th and 18th centuries in a grandiloquent and sumptuous manner. It marks the beginning of industrial production for a new bourgeoisie.

Art Nouveau woodwork – the influence of nature and plant motifs : This style features an explosion of curves that take on organic and fluid forms, creating a poetic and harmonious atmosphere inspired by nature. Precious woods like mahogany are often used.

Art Deco woodwork – a geometric and modern style : Primarily distinguished by straight lines, sober shapes combined with bold motifs, in complete contrast to Art Nouveau. You’ll find woodworks veneered with precious woods like ebony, Thuya burl, walnut, and ivory.

Our services for a custom woodwork project

A carefully curated selection of woodwork and antique documents

Over the years, we have assembled and restored a wide range of woodwork panels from different styles and eras. We invite you to discover these heritage treasures in our showroom in Villeneuve-d'Ascq near Lille. We will guide you in choosing the most suitable option based on your wishes and constraints (aesthetic, historical, and technical).

Advice and support for your woodwork projects

Using sketches and plans, we assist you in adapting these woodworks. We help you visualize the realization of your project.

Restoration, additions, and custom finishes with complete mastery

Our craftsmen restore, complete, and install your woodwork down to the finish, waxing them with capucine or patinating them according to the rules of the art. We are also able to complete and reproduce woodwork panels or restore an antique patina.

Delivery and installation across France and internationally

Our specialized teams provide a turnkey service (transport and installation) throughout France (Lille, Paris, Lyon, Marseille, etc.) and internationally.

Our antique woodworks are more than just decorative elements: they tell a story and give soul to your interior. Do not hesitate to contact us to discover our selection and bring your project to life!

Discover our dedicated website for antique woodwork by clicking here