Small 18th-century Master's Chest Of Drawers

Elegant small master's chest of drawers with a pronounced curve on the front and sides, opening with three rows of drawers.

It is entirely inlaid with violet wood cut in a "butterfly wing" pattern. This technique uses and plays with the natural grain of the wood and its color variations to create geometric patterns. It emphasizes the contours of the drawers and enlivens the entire surface of the piece.

The pinched front uprights rest on wide feet.

Dimensions

L. 46 cm x D. 29 cm x H. 32 cm

Parisian work

Violet wood

18^th Century

Master's Furniture

Since the Middle Ages, to become a master during the time of the guilds, journeymen carpenters had to present a masterpiece that stood out as a scale model of a "real" piece of furniture. Despite the complexity of the manufacturing process, which required meticulousness, concentration, and experience, the execution of these miniature pieces of furniture had to be exemplary.

The spirit of selfless craftsmanship also dictated that the masterpieces remain anonymous, making attribution difficult.

There are also other miniature objects such as "délassements." These were made by artisans outside of their working hours, or when they were retired. The cabinetmaker, out of passion or a challenge, would execute one last piece, a final testament to his skill and expertise.