During the reign of Louis XVI, commodes such as this parquetry chest of drawers, were seen in many French homes and apartments, allowing for storage of garments in bedrooms. This particular commode was hand-carved in France in the 1700s, and based on the short, tapering ball feet, it was most likely constructed towards the end of the period, in the late 18th century.

As is the case with most period Louis XVI furniture, bronze fittings were used to provide drawer pulls and keyplates. Each of the three drawers has a pair of oval pulls flanking an oval keyplate medallion of a gadrooned urn surrounded by beading. Identical medallions can be seen on the pull mounts, accompanied by a pair of portrait cameos surrounded by a husked swag and volute floral margent. The top drawer is shallower than the two below it, with built-in compartments, both of which were common characteristics of Louis XVI.

Another hallmark of the period was arranging the parquetry in a lozenge form, as seen at the center of the top. There is also a 1 ¼ inch thick geometric border near the top’s edges, while the corners extend slightly beyond the pilaster legs beneath. All three drawers have identical parquetry work of rectangles and roundels. Similar shapes can be seen on the side panels, complemented by a central lozenge. The overall rectilinear shape is softened by the shaped front apron, which has a plunging noix with canted edges. It is a handsome 18th century parquetry commode that can be used in any bedroom of the house.

CONDITION: Good antique condition with minor nicks and losses, including the key plate on the top drawer. Some age separations are visible, despite old restoration work. Light wear to the top, commensurate with age and use. Traces of old woodworm damage.