Louis XV Period Chest Of Drawers Stamped By Rubestuck

Stamped by Rubestruck, this sumptuous Louis XV commode, stamped F. Rubestruck, exquisitely embodies the expertise of 18th-century Parisian cabinetmaking. Curved on three sides, it presents a flowing line typical of the Louis XV style, both harmonious and sensual. Completely restored in our workshops (veneer chips, cleaning of the bronze mounts, French polishing, etc.), it is crafted from precious wood marquetry, offering a remarkable interplay of warm and contrasting veneers, carefully arranged in sculpted reserves. The finely worked, chiseled and gilded bronze mounts elegantly accentuate the contours: drawer pulls, keyhole escutcheons, corner mounts, feet, and central apron all testify to exceptional craftsmanship. The richly veined marble top adds nobility and balance to the whole. The F. Rubestruck stamp, from a master cabinetmaker renowned for the quality of his work, guarantees an authentic and sought-after production, intended for a demanding clientele. A piece of furniture that is both decorative and functional, this chest of drawers is a masterpiece of elegance and prestige, ideal for enriching a classic interior or adding a touch of character to a contemporary decor. François Rubestuck Cabinetmaker Reference 18th Century Born 1722 Died 1783 François Rübestück, known as Franz or France, born in Westphalia around 1722, died in Paris on April 28, 1783. He had been working for at least seven years in the Faubourg Saint-Antoine when he obtained his master's certificate on May 7, 1766. After living on Rue de la Roquette, he moved his workshop to Rue de Charenton, beyond the Convent of the English Daughters. Rübestück was a skillful and meticulous cabinetmaker, but his intemperate habits, which prompted his wife to file for separation, prevented him from fully realizing his talents. He ended His days were spent almost in poverty. Since he had no known heirs, the small portion of his estate was bequeathed to the King by right of escheat. This master craftsman signed his work F. RUBESTUCK, in widely spaced characters. Several pieces bearing this mark clearly reveal the technique of a foreigner. A curious example is known: a secretary desk of enormous dimensions, with veneered panels bordered by Greek key patterns, two rows of drawers at the top, doors at the bottom, and a central drop-front that could be operated effortlessly thanks to a system of cords and pulleys hidden behind a false bottom. Nevertheless, this cabinetmaker's work rarely falters in taste. He left behind many pieces of lacquered wood furniture with Chinese decoration. Others were among the furnishings of the Château de Valmer dispersed in 1917, and in a group sale which took place at the Galerie Georges-Petit on December 16, 1922. The most admirable piece on which the stamp of Rübestück has been found is a commode, in floral marquetry, from the former Cronier collection, which passed to Mr. George A. Kessler.