Louis XV Period Commode-style Chest Of Drawers, Stamped Jb Hedouin

A superb Louis XV period commode, stamped on all four uprights by Jean-Baptiste Hedouin. The frame and drawers are constructed of solid oak, fir, and walnut. The edges of the frieze and geometric marquetry in violet wood are veneered with satinwood. Two types of violet wood are visible: one with a very tight grain and veining for the lozenges, and a second, more intricate type for the marquetry outlines, uprights, and rails. The grey Ardennes marble is molded and shaped to fit the contours of the commode. It opens with four drawers (two small and two large). Richly mounted with finely chiseled and gilded bronze, typical of the Rococo style, this commode is characterized by the interplay of curves and counter-curves (concave and convex drawers) which gives it a perfect, very elegant line. A Parisian piece from the Louis XV period, circa 1750, it bears the stamp of JB HEDOUIN on all four sides. Jean-Baptiste Hédouin (died January 1783), cabinetmaker and marquetry artist, Paris, master on May 22, 1738. In his workshop on Rue Traversière-Saint-Antoine, Hédouin primarily produced commodes, but also secretaries and flat desks adorned with various marquetry designs, often with geometric motifs in the Louis XV style, and always of high quality.