French Commode , XVIII Century
France, early 18th century
A charming two-drawer commode of bombe form, carved from solid walnut with a rich, well-patinated surface.
The bombe case narrows at the waist with a soft vertical ridge on each side, giving the whole commode a gently pinched, corseted profile.
The corners are boldly modelled with expressive winged cherubic masks above cascades of acanthus, the drawers fitted with original period gilt-bronze handles and escutcheons of foliate and ribbon form.
Dealer’s Comment:
I was intrigued the moment I spotted this commode at a déballage in France - I don’t recall seeing one quite like it before. and after poring over my French furniture books, I still can’t.
My best guess is that it was a special commission, perhaps for a small chapel or other religious setting.
The period is easy enough to place from the form and construction, but the carved angels remain a mystery and I love their serene expressions. It also has an unusual slightly pinched detailing along the front and sides which highlights the care and quality of the carving.
Height: 85cm
Width: 91cm
Depth: 56cm
A charming two-drawer commode of bombe form, carved from solid walnut with a rich, well-patinated surface.
The bombe case narrows at the waist with a soft vertical ridge on each side, giving the whole commode a gently pinched, corseted profile.
The corners are boldly modelled with expressive winged cherubic masks above cascades of acanthus, the drawers fitted with original period gilt-bronze handles and escutcheons of foliate and ribbon form.
Dealer’s Comment:
I was intrigued the moment I spotted this commode at a déballage in France - I don’t recall seeing one quite like it before. and after poring over my French furniture books, I still can’t.
My best guess is that it was a special commission, perhaps for a small chapel or other religious setting.
The period is easy enough to place from the form and construction, but the carved angels remain a mystery and I love their serene expressions. It also has an unusual slightly pinched detailing along the front and sides which highlights the care and quality of the carving.
Height: 85cm
Width: 91cm
Depth: 56cm
£ 3,850.00
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