19th Century French Louis XVI Marble Top Marquetry Chest

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A finely crafted French commode of Transitional Louis XVI taste, dating to the early 19th century. This antique chest from … Read more A finely crafted French commode of Transitional Louis XVI taste, dating to the early 19th century. This antique chest from France exhibits the restrained geometry and neoclassical influence associated with the Louis XVI period while retaining a touch of the movement and elegance carried over from the preceding Louis XV style. The case features a particularly attractive shallow breakfront facade, with the central section projecting forward ever so slightly, and housing three full-sized drawers between canted front corner posts. This subtle shaping is echoed by the marble top, whose front corners are chamfered to correspond with the angled stiles below. The case is veneered throughout in richly figured geometric veneered woods creating visual interest on every surface. The drawer fronts are decorated with striking book-matched and quarter-matched panels arranged in angular patterns, while the sides feature large-scale geometric veneers framed within delicate borders. A beautiful ribbon inlay and banding outline each drawer and side panel. The commode retains its original gilt-bronze mounts and hardware, an especially desirable feature. Each drawer is fitted with elegant brass bail pulls with richly detailed ornamental backplates with bow-tied wreath escutcheons at center. Finely cast gilt-bronze mounts adorn the tops of each canted side post, and at the drop down of the lower apron, serving as an attractive focal point. The chest is presented on squared tapering legs. The original marble top has a palette of rose brown, warm chestnut, cocoa, and mauves, with veining in ivory, cream, and soft white. The veneers display some expected age-related wear, minor surface scratches, small veneer irregularities, and light rubbing consistent with normal use and age. The marble shows minor edge wear and small imperfections commensurate with centuries of service. This elegant early 19th century French commode would make an outstanding entry hall statement piece beneath a mirror, a sophisticated bedroom chest, or a refined living room accent cabinet. See less