Very important chest of drawers Louis XV period

Dimensions : Width 130cm, Depth 62cm, Height 89cm

This chest of drawers, generously curved on all three sides, features floral marquetry and opens to two drawers without a crossbar. The volumes and curves of the legs are perfectly proportioned and balanced. The quality of craftsmanship of the oak frame and drawer interiors in the same wood, and the richness and precision of the marquetry, attest to the work of a great Parisian master during the Rocaille period of the Louis XV period, in the middle of the 18th century.

The chasing of the bronzes is particularly elaborate. The ornamentation is abundant, with superb and original openwork designs. The falls and sabots are joined by a line of bronze with a floral motif of great finesse. The handles and lock escutcheons are remarkable. The marble top, which has been restored, is original; it is a rare vein, most probably from Italy, with very varied colours of brown, grey, garnet and yellow.

The exceptional character of this chest of drawers lies in the richness and quality of the marquetry. Inside curved reserves, there is a profusion of flowers arranged around a basket in the center of the front. The use of "two drawers without crosspieces" creates a single panel at the front, which is repeated at the sides with the same virtuosity by the cabinetmaker. The richness of the woods used is impressive. The outer reserves are made from top-quality violet wood. Inside the paintings, the backgrounds are rosewood, and the plant motifs are composed of sycamore, satinwood, boxwood fillets and various fruit woods stained green and pale red. This marquetry is in exceptional condition, with the colours still very much in evidence. The engraving of the flowers further enhances their realism, and its fine condition is also noteworthy.

This piece has just been professionally restored by a leading cabinetmaker, who spent over 200 hours on it. Most of the marquetry was removed in order to restore the frame perfectly and glue the veneer back on after restoration. The buffer varnish is of the highest quality, and will ensure that the piece remains in good condition over time. Although these operations were very important, they were only restorations for use and maintenance.