18th Century Carved French Oak and Marble Louis XVI Commode

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Topped by a 1 ¼” thick marble with chamfered edges, this exquisite chest of drawers is a period piece, dating … Read more Topped by a 1 ¼” thick marble with chamfered edges, this exquisite chest of drawers is a period piece, dating to the reign of Louis XVI in the late 1700s. The oak frame, which has three tiers of drawers, has been hand-carved with a very rectilinear form, which is a hallmark of Louis XVI commode. Each drawer has a pair of bronze round pulls embellished with tightly grouped fluting and affixed by a circular mount adorned with repeating geometric patterns. In the center of each drawer is a keyplate with similar motifs (minus the fluted loop), each set within a carving of a wreath with thick foliate tendrils that reach towards the pulls. All of the hardware is contained within a husked border that traverses all four edges of the drawer. Interestingly, if you look closely at the drawer fronts, each of the carvings has distinct nuances, such as different varieties of leaves and whether the husked border is contiguous.

Beneath the drawers is a crenellated apron that graces both sides as well. This is mirrored at the top by a husked band that is interrupted by floral margents on the slightly rounded front corners, just above the chandelle pilaster. The oak has a rich, brown patina that forms a lovely palette with the light gray marble top, which has white, black, and gold veining. This stately Louis XVI commode would make a wonderful addition to any room that needs storage, such as a bedroom, living room, or hallway. See less