Transitional-period Chest Of Drawers, Circa 1765–1775, 18th Century

Louis XV–Louis XVI Transition Period Chest of Drawers, circa 1765–1775

An elegant Transition-period chest of drawers in precious wood marquetry, perfectly illustrating the evolution of French taste between the final years of Louis XV’s reign and the early days of the Louis XVI style.
This period is characterized by the harmonious combination of the still slightly curved lines inherited from the Louis XV style and the geometric precision heralding Louis XVI Neoclassicism.

The front features two drawers arranged in two rows that close with its original key. 
The fronts are richly veneered with remarkable violet wood featuring a herringbone pattern and geometric scrollwork, framed by fillets that highlight the quality of the cabinetry.
The marquetry features warm, deep hues, ranging from reddish-brown to amber-violet, characteristic of the precious woods used in Parisian furniture of the second half of the 18th century.

The piece rests on four slightly curved legs, finished with slender gilded bronze feet, while the uprights are adorned with chiseled and gilded bronze finials.
The lock plates, pull rings, and central finial feature a refined, classically inspired decoration, typical of the Transition style, in which bronze work gradually moved away from Rococo excesses toward greater symmetry and elegance.

The top is topped with a molded, beaked-edge gray veined marble, perfectly suited to the quality of the piece and offering an elegant contrast to the warm tones of the marquetry.

The interior of the drawers is made of solid antique wood.
The joinery and construction attest to meticulous cabinetmaking.
A partially legible stamp beneath the frame appears to read “RESTAURE & GOYS,” a mark that would merit further examination to clarify its attribution.

• Period: Transition from Louis XV to Louis XVI
• Date: circa 1765–1775
• Origin: French work, likely Parisian
• Main wood: violet wood and precious wood veneers
• Decoration: geometric herringbone scrollwork and filleted frames
• Opens with two drawers in two rows
• Chiseled and gilded bronze fittings
• Rear molded gray veined marble top
• Curved legs with bronze feet
• Very fine decorative quality and craftsmanship

Very good overall condition.
Well-preserved marquetry with standard historical restorations.
Complete bronze fittings. Marble top in good condition. Some normal signs of age and use consistent with the piece’s age.

This chest of drawers combines the most sought-after characteristics of Transition-period furniture: elegant proportions, rich veneers, high-quality bronze fittings, and a balance between the curved forms of the Louis XV style and the more architectural lines of the Louis XVI style.
A refined piece, suitable for both a classic home and a contemporary interior seeking an 18th-century piece with character.

Our chest of drawers measures 101 cm in length, 46 cm in depth, and 85.5 cm in height.