Important chest of drawers with curved front and sides

Early Louis XV Period

Dimensions : H. 93,5 cm x W. 162 cm x D. 71,6 cm

Louis Delaitre became a master craftsman in 1738 and worked, among others, for Migeon. This highly talented Parisian cabinetmaker produced furniture of varying quality, from numerous commonplace commodes to some exceptionally well-finished pieces for prestigious clients.

The often misused term "château commode" can be applied to this commode due to its truly exceptional dimensions. Whether commissioned for a château or a grand Parisian townhouse, it is remarkable that the proportions of this piece are so well-balanced, with a width of over 1.6 meters. Commodes of this size are indeed often ungainly. Here, the height and depth are in proportion, as are all the constituent elements: uprights, rails, bronze mounts, and marquetry motifs.

This commode dates from the early Louis XV period. It is generously curved on its front, as well as on the sides, creating uprights with a prominent ridge. The uprights are described as "pincés." The original veneer consists of magnificent violet wood leaves, selected and worked to create a multi-framed design on the drawers and sides. Of particular note is the marquetry work on the rails, which forms a chevron pattern, the direction of which reverses in the center of the chest of drawers.

The bronze elements—feet, drops, and apron—are all original and remarkably finely chiseled, perfectly suited to the shape and dimensions of the commode. The keyhole escutcheons and handles blend harmoniously into the front frames. The original marble top is a superb 3.5 cm thick Belgian Rance marble, in perfect condition; reddish-brown with subtle gray and white veining, this marble is adorned with a beautiful groove and an elongated corbel.

The interior of the commode also demonstrates a very high level of craftsmanship. The drawer bottoms are made of beautiful walnut and fitted with millimeter precision, while the oak and fir frame is of impeccable quality. The perfect state of preservation of this piece is rare.

This commode has just undergone a high-level, reversible, and lasting restoration in the workshops of one of the finest cabinetmakers in the Île-de-France region.