catalog text
NEOCLASSICAL CUBE-PARQUETRY INLAID THREE-DRAWER COMMODE
Continental, circa late 19th century
Item # 007GUO30P
An absolutely gorgeous three-drawer commode from the last quarter of the 19th century, this fine presentation piece features a cubed-parquetry inlaid surface creating a complex geometrical display framed in a banded border flanked by stringer inlays.
The dense mostly walnut primary woods have a magnificent well-developed patina in the hand-rubbed shellac. This beautiful natural wood is supplemented by powerful ormolu mounts in the corners, these angular displays featuring groups of falling leaves captured in the architecture of the mounts.
Original cast bronze pulls and escutcheons remain on all drawers and easily operate their smooth function. Each drawer is hand dovetailed in the typical manner with large tight pins in the white oak secondary woods.
Perhaps most attractive is the original polished stone top with chaotic sedimentary deposits creating wonderful layered striations and mineral blossoms in the overall cream surface.
The chest is raised over tapered turned and fluted legs over brass sabots.
Measurements: 33 5/8" H x 20 3/4" D x 39 1/2" W
Condition Report:
Back right leg with a flattened loss to upper ring. Scuffs and abrasions to old surface throughout. No key. Chips and losses around the edges of the onyx top.