Louis XVI Inlaid Chest of Drawers in Walnut

Details

Description

A precious three-drawer chest of drawers in the louis xvi style, a refined expression of piedmontese cabinetmaking from the late … Read more A precious three-drawer chest of drawers in the louis xvi style, a refined expression of piedmontese cabinetmaking from the late 18th century (circa 1780-1790). This piece is distinguished by the exceptional quality of its geometric inlays and the masterful selection of wood types, typical of the workshops active in the turin and piedmont areas, influenced by the neoclassical taste of the time.

technical and construction details

period: late 18th century (louis xvi period, circa 1780-1790)

origin: piedmont, italy

woods: walnut, boxwood, poplar (for the internal structure), and stained fruitwood for the decorative details.

condition: excellent overall condition. The piece features a splendid period patina, enhanced by a buffered shellac polish. Structurally sound.


the front and drawers

the chest of drawers features the classic three-drawer configuration:

the top drawer: narrower, it is embellished with a rich geometric inlay of alternating circles and rectangles in contrasting light and dark woods, creating a dynamic three-dimensional effect.

the two lower drawers: wider, they are visually joined and decorated with a splendid walnut veneer in a herringbone pattern (quadripartite). Both are framed by a refined geometric "chain" motif in boxwood and dark woods.

the uprights: enhanced with candelabra inlays and neoclassical leaf pendants.

the top and sides

the top: made entirely of wood (a feature much appreciated over marble tops, as it demonstrates the continuity of the cabinetmaker's work), it features a geometric veneer that mirrors that of the drawers, enclosed by the same perimeter chain fretwork that enhances the rounded shape at the front corners.

the sides: they faithfully reproduce the decorative scheme of the front, with large quadripartite walnut panels and inlaid geometric frames.

supports and details

the legs: the cabinet rests on four elegant truncated pyramid legs ("pin" legs), typical of the louis xvi style, finely filleted and decorated with teardrop inlays on the sides.

the hardware: escutcheons and pendant ring handles in gilded and chiseled neoclassical style, perfectly contemporary. The key is present and the locks are working.

back and interior: the back features typical 18th-century construction with solid poplar slats.

dimensions

width: 118 cm

depth: 53 cm

height: 88 cm See less