Louis XVI Burr Walnut Commode | Cabinet Furniture
A distinguished example of late 18th-century French craftsmanship, this Louis XVI burr walnut commode offers a refined glimpse into provincial elegance. It embodies the serene neoclassical lines of the Louis XVI period, pairing French artistry with practical utility.
Origin: France, stamped Jean Baptiste Courte
Date: Circa 1780
Material: Burr walnut veneer with Nero Portoro marble top
Dimensions: Height: 86 cm (34 in); Width: 124 cm (49 in); Depth: 56 cm (22 in)
Condition: Excellent surface with fine patina; minor restorations in keeping with age
This exquisite cabinet furniture piece is the work of Jean Baptiste Courte, a master cabinet-maker of Dijon, whose creations rival those of the renowned Parisian ateliers. Stamped 'COURTE', this commode stands testament to the sophisticated, symmetrical ethos of the Louis XVI style, now sought after by collectors and connoisseurs alike. Similar examples can be found in esteemed collections and museum holdings, where their balance and restrained elegance are highly prized.
Notable Features:
- Fluted pilasters frame the commode’s sides, enhancing its sense of proportion, while the turned and tapering fluted legs exemplify classical inspiration.
- Sumptuous burr walnut veneers lend warmth and movement to the façade, harmoniously offset by the striking Nero Portoro marble top, a luxury detail associated with elite French cabinet-making.
- The commode’s design is a direct reflection of the transition to neoclassicism in French decorative arts, favouring clean architectural lines over rococo excess. The use of fine veneers and the restrained application of gilt-bronze mounts evoke understated grandeur—a hallmark of the Louis XVI period.
- Stamped authentic pieces by Jean Baptiste Courte rarely surface on the market, especially in such well-preserved condition. This commode’s size and form make it especially attractive for sophisticated interiors, whether used as a statement piece in a living room set or as a focal point within a period furniture collection.
Elevate your living space with a piece that not only showcases historic French artistry but also offers practical elegance and enduring investment appeal.
At Nicholas Wells Antiques, we take great care in preparing each piece for delivery. As every antique is unique, custom packaging and handling are essential to ensure safe transit. Only once we have checked each item and wax polished them do we aim to ship your order. We will notify you by email once it has been dispatched. Delivery times may vary depending on the item and your location.
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