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19th C. French Restoration Period Empire Style Mahogany Chest Of Drawers Commode

About the Item

A striking French Empire style mahogany chest of drawers commode with warm rich patina. circa 1820 Born in France during the early 19th century Restauration Period (1815-1830), hand-crafted of mahogany with oak secondary, having a rectangular fossilized black marble slab with molded front edge, over a case fitted with three drawers adorned with inset brass keyhole escutcheons flanked by patinated gilt metal lion mask ring pulls, framed by classical tapering pilaster columns mounted with gilt bronze Egyptianesque figural bust capitals, rising on hand carved giltwood paw front feet. High quality craftsmanship and solid wood construction, including dovetail joinery to the case and drawers, full dust board panels, lacquered hardware, and polished black fossil marble top. Dimensions: (approx) 36.5" High, 50.75" Wide, 23 1/8" Deep History: After fifteen years of ringing fanfares from one end of Europe to the other, the Napoleonic adventure ended on the plain of Waterloo, France. The Restoration was a reaction against the gaudy spectacle and monumental pomp of the Empire. It fostered an elegance, refinement and subtlety that had been obscured by Napoleonic grandeur. Furniture: Elegant yet unpretentious harmony characterizes Restoration furniture, which was comfortable, gracious and portable. The styles associated with the reigns of Louis XVIII (1815-1824) and Charles X (1824-1830) are largely in line with the earlier Empire furniture although they are seen by many as a decline into decadence, similar to the following reign of Louis Philippe (1830-1848) At the beginning of the Restauration period, under Louis XVIII, furniture was designed still mostly in the Empire style with the difference that the symbols used during the reign of Napoleon I were no longer used for obvious reasons. A softer version of the Empire style came into vogue at this time in the early 19th century in France. While cabinetmakers continued to employ the strong geometrical patterns of the Empire period they also added a some amount of whimsy and fantasy in their designs. Musical instruments were carved into the legs of small tables and desks. Woods were lighter in both color and density and the art of marquetry returned with decorative flowers, garlands and rosettes, and detailing that highlighted the architecture and geometry of furniture. Furniture making slowed down due to economic uncertainty and furniture was not a focus of the French kings of this period. Rooms and interiors were being designed with more emphasis on comfort than display and the old way of keeping seat furniture against the walls was abandoned. Condition Report: Very good antique condition, especially considering its over 200 years old. Attractive appearance, with nicely aged warm rich dark patina and mellow sheen. Retaining original antique character marks and charm throughout, including scattered nicks, minor losses, evidence of old fill, past restorations and touchups. Marble slab with small chip to front left corner. Drawer interiors with ink writing indicating order. All wear commensurate with age and use. Strong, sturdy, stable, structurally sound. Presents well. Delivered cleaned, waxed, with hand rubbed polished patina, ready for immediate use and generational enjoyment!
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 36.5 in (92.71 cm)Width: 50.75 in (128.91 cm)Depth: 23.15 in (58.81 cm)
  • Style:
    Restauration (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    circa 1820
  • Condition:
    Repaired: Evidence of past restorations, old fill and touchups throughout. Wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses. Very good antique condition. Attractive appearance, nicely aged warm rich dark patina. Retaining antique character throughout, including scattered nicks, minor losses, evidence of old restorations. Strong, sturdy, stable. See description for details.
  • Seller Location:
    Forney, TX
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU5977239220352
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