Louis XV Period Chiffonnier/salon. Parisian Work, Circa 1730.

An elegant Louis XV period chiffonier serving as a salon table, attributable to Parisian craftsmanship from the first half of the 18th century, circa 1730. This piece belongs to the category of portable furniture, intended for refined domestic use, and corresponds typologically to the chiffonier, also known in the 18th century as a chiffonier table or work table. Resting on an oak and fir frame, in accordance with Parisian practices of the period, it is entirely veneered with amaranth (Peltogyne), an exotic wood imported as early as the 17th century and particularly fashionable in Parisian workshops at the turn of the Regency and the reign of Louis XV. Prized for its naturally purplish hue, which deepens over time to rich reddish-brown tones, amaranth was widely used for the complete veneering of elegant small furniture pieces in the early 18th century. Amaranth pieces signed by renowned Parisian cabinetmakers such as Etienne Doirat and François Lieutaud can be found. The gently curved front, with its sinuous shape, opens with three perfectly proportioned, superimposed drawers. The top drawer forms a writing surface: it reveals a velvet-lined, lift-up writing tablet, as well as small compartments on the right side, designed to hold inkwells and writing accessories, a characteristic feature of work tables of this period. The three drawers are made of oak and each retains its original lock. They are equipped with three pull keys, allowing the drawers to be opened. The veneered wooden top is highlighted by small side and rear moldings of solid amaranth, forming a slight rim, a detail typical of these small Parisian tables intended for refined use. The piece rests on elegantly slender, cabriole legs terminating in gilt-bronze sabots. The keyhole escutcheons, also in gilt bronze, harmoniously complement the understated ornamentation of this piece. This chiffonier perfectly illustrates the Parisian taste of the years 1725–1735 for small, functional, and elegant furniture, combining quality craftsmanship, refined choice of materials, and harmonious proportions. The piece is in good condition, having been serviced and revarnished. Dimensions: Height: 69 cm Width: 41 cm Depth: 31 cm