Regence Commode by Nicolas Bernard, 1750

Details

Description

Regence chest of drawers from the workshop of nicolas bernard

france
kingwood
mid 18th century

dimensions: h × w × … Read more Regence chest of drawers from the workshop of nicolas bernard

france
kingwood
mid 18th century

dimensions: h × w × d: 83 × 125 × 62 cm

:
this fine regence or louis xv chest of drawers with a curved front and elegantly curved body is a characteristic example of parisian furniture art from around 1750.
the body rests on four high, curved legs and supports the perfectly fitting, original top panel made of griotte marble, which was quarried in the french pyrenees and enjoyed great popularity with some parisian ebenists of the time due to its strong red veining.

the veneered surface features a lively interplay of kingwood(bois de violette) laid in a herringbone pattern, framed by dark band inlays. The wood forms the perfect backdrop for the elaborately designed fittings.
the veneer is structured on the sides by diamond-shaped and mitred bands - a classic design that was popular in the époque régence and early louis xv.

the exceptionally high-quality bronze decoration of the chest of drawers is particularly impressive:
the pilaster strip fittings show finely chiselled female faces on a lavish rocaille cartouche. The flowing hair of the mascarons ends at the bottom in a symmetrical leaf ornament with deeply sculpted decoration in which roses and other flowers merge together. A typical fitting used in the workshop of nicolas bernard.
a pearl bar creates the connection to the magnificent bronze sabots mounted on the feet of the chest of drawers.
the key plates show key guides framed by a string of pearls and flanked by dolphin-like mythical creatures. At the top we see a crown of shells, the lower end is formed by an abstract rocaille with a grimacing mask - another iconic motif in the rococo decorative style.


condition:
authentic, restored condition with a shellac polish. The bronzes have been cleaned and are also in a very desirable condition. This piece has an attribution mark,
i am sure that it is completely authentic and take full responsibility for any authenticity
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