French 18th Century Louis XVI Style Inlay Mahogany Commode

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An extraordinary French mahogany commode from the 18th century, Louis XVI Period, decorated with an impressive marquetry technique that creates … Read more An extraordinary French mahogany commode from the 18th century, Louis XVI Period, decorated with an impressive marquetry technique that creates movement and definition over the drawer fronts and side panels. The commode retains its original slab of gray marble, the stone animated by frenetic white veining, and shaped to turreted front corners. Across the top row are three drawers of geometric marquetry designs to outline them (like two rows of twisting ribbon) in alternating blonde and dark woods. Brass bail pulls operate the left and right drawers while the middle drawer requires the key to function as a pull (lock is intact but does not turn). The two wide drawers follow the rhythm as above with three distinct rectangular "frames" around the drawer hardware, in graphic marquetry of dark/light woods that have been hand-decorated in wispy patterns of red pigment suggesting plumes or waves adding depth and regal grandeur to this already fine example of the woodworker's craft. The side panels have complementary inlaid designs, themes which are replicated down the turrets (using marquetry to imply fluted recesses) moving into the conical feet so from every perspective one can admire the visionary intentions of the maker even two centuries later. Cleaned and polished with a French paste wax, this commode is ready to be enjoyed in your interior. Be sure to view the detailed images to see the current condition as the right side panel appears to have been repaired. See less