This exceptional Louis XV commode exemplifies mid-18th century French cabinet furniture at its most refined and fashionable. Evoking the Rococo elegance of its era, it bears the distinguished stamp of Jean-Baptiste Hédouin, one of Paris’s celebrated ébénistes and a master from 1738, making this a particularly rare and desirable dresser for the discerning collector.
Origin: France
Date: Circa 1750
Material: Amaranth and kingwood veneers with rich floral marquetry; original marble top
Dimensions: Height: 86 cm (34 in); Width: 149 cm (58.5 in); Depth: 66 cm (26 in)
Condition: Excellent, with minor restorations; retains original marble top and a superb patina
A commode of this calibre is a quintessential example of French Louis XV furniture, notable for its curvaceous bombe form and ‘sans travers’ construction. Similar forms can be admired in the Musée Carnavalet and are highly sought after by connoisseurs of antique cabinet furniture. The commode’s sculptural presence and balance of ornate marquetry with restrained ormolu mounts embody the exuberance and artistry of Rococo design, while the confirmed Hédouin attribution anchors it firmly amongst the most significant works of the period.
Notable Features:
- Superb craftsmanship is demonstrated in the lavish use of amaranth and kingwood, intricately inlaid with floral marquetry flowing seamlessly around the bombe form.
- The scalloped, original marble top is gracefully contoured to complement the undulating façade, perfectly accentuating the commode’s noble silhouette.
- The dresser comprises two short drawers above two long drawers, ingeniously arranged ‘sans travers’ for a harmonious, uninterrupted surface—a design innovation favoured by the finest 18th-century French furniture makers.
- Stamped three times by Jean-Baptiste Hédouin, this commode’s authenticity and scarcity substantiate its impressive collecting value, particularly for those focused on prominent Parisian ébénistes.
- With its generous proportions and elegant form, this dresser offers outstanding practicality, perfect as a statement piece in refined interiors or the centrepiece of a notable collection of cabinet furniture.
A rare opportunity to acquire an important example of French Louis XV commode, marrying exceptional artistry, provenance, and practical elegance—a testament to the enduring allure of 18th-century French cabinet furniture.
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