A VERY FINE LATE GUSTAVIAN NEOCLASSICAL COMMODE
Probably Stockholm, Sweden circa 1780

Mahogany, mahogany veneers, pine, Öland limestone, gilt bronze, brass

35 1/2" H x 47 1/2" W x 21 1/2" D

ref. 601WPP21D

Expertly constructed in richly figured mahogany veneer over a softwood carcass, the commode presents a restrained late Gustavian neoclassical facade with three wide graduated drawers. The drawer fronts are framed by fine brass banding with sand-cast ormolu bronze spandrels in the upper and lower corners of the overall facade. Circular ormolu ring-pulls hung on each drawer flank a very finely cast, chiseled and chased foliate mounts around the central keyhole escutcheon. Gilt brass mounts on the beveled corners echo the drawers, these situated at the very top over three brass-inlaid flutes.

The sides are veneered in a dense mahogany wood carefully chosen for its pleasing vertical grain profile. The top is fitted with a gray-beige Öland limestone slab with corners shaped to conform with the corners of the chest. The interior drawer construction is tidy and precise with large graduating hand cut dovetails while the back of the commode is simple: a series of wide planks of pine heavily hand-planed and overall appearing to be untouched, still firmly affixed with the tiny wooden pegs that attach it to the sides of the case.

A most pleasing presentation.

Condition: Surface wear consistent with age and use: minor scuffs and stray marks, scars and points of loss; overall the finish remains a brilliant presentation. Stone top is apparently original, very old repaired cracks, edge abrasions, several large chips, stains and minor losses. Brass mounts and pulls appear original, the brass oxidized and patinated throughout, wear to gilding. Structurally sound and stable, ready for regular functional use in the home. A few losses to brass trim (the tiny returns between moldings in the corners), dents, repositioning, etc. No key.