Large mahogany commode / chest of drawers. Patinated wood lion feet, chiseled and gilt bronze (ormolu) decoration picturing antique woman busts, thick gray marble. Early 19th century : Consulate - Empire production, circa 1800.
Beautiful model, typical from Consulate period, in the style known as back from Egypt, very fashionable at the very end of the 18th century and in the early 1800s. That period introduced Empire style, maintaining the codes and tradition of 18th century pieces of furniture.
Our commode is attributed to Bernard Molitor who made many similar models. Suberb quality of execution and materials (flamed mahogany, ormolu, finely chiseled bronzes, luxury blue Turquin marble). Our furniture is not stamped, but the attribution is very likely.
Bernard Molitor (1755 - 1833), master in 1787, quickly became one of the first Parisian cabinetmakers and received orders from the Crown since 1788. Molitor was very innovative ; he is a precursor of Empire style. From the end of Louis XVI period, he announced Empire style by using busts of Egyptian, palm friezes or griffins that will be widely used under French Empire. Molitor was very sucessfull until French Restoration. Molitor pieces of furniture are exposed in the biggest museums and collections.
Our piece is in excellent condition, completely restored with a new varnish made in a traditional way. The marble has some superficial scratches but will be polished prior to delivery.
Height: 89cm
Width: 129cm
Depth: 60cm
