18th century four-drawer French commode w/ marble top and lovely marquetry 35½"

This stunning Louis XV commode, originating from eighteenth-century Paris, is a true marvel of craftsmanship and beauty. It retains all its original marble and bronze decorations and is adorned with scrolling bronze foliage, which embellishes the sides, feet, carved apron, drop handles, and keyhole escutcheons. These intricate bronze elements add a touch of grandeur and artistry to the piece, exemplifying the attention to detail characteristic of the Louis XV period. The commode features two long drawers at the bottom and two smaller drawers at the top, providing functional storage space.

 

The expert craftsmanship involved in both the woodwork and decorative elements is evident in the meticulous marquetry work. This technique combines inlays of exotic woods of different colors, resulting in visually captivating patterns and designs and is characteristic of the Louis XV period.

One particularly interesting aspect of this commode is its marble top, intentionally designed to be larger than the piece of furniture it adorns. This design choice allows for adequate airflow between the commode and the wall, which is particularly important in humid environments like Paris during the summertime. By facilitating air circulation, this design feature helps prevent mold from forming on the walls.

This Louis XV commode is not only a functional piece of furniture but also a work of art that captures the essence of the period. Its exquisite marquetry, original marble and bronze decorations, and thoughtful design make it a remarkable testament to the skilled craftsmanship and elegance of eighteenth-century Paris and the perfect piece for your home! *Minor losses to marquetry.