Curved Provençal Chest Of Drawers, Stamped "d. Bariol," 18th Century

Curved Provençal chest of drawers stamped D. Bariol
Louis XV period – 18th century

An elegant Provençal chest of drawers in molded and carved walnut, stamped D. Bariol, a remarkable example of 18th-century Provençal cabinetmaking. Exhibiting particularly meticulous craftsmanship, it perfectly illustrates the refinement of southern French furniture from the Louis XV period, where vigorous carving combines with the elegance of curved lines.

The front and sides feature a harmonious, curved profile, giving the piece a supple and balanced silhouette. It opens to reveal two large drawers with no visible crossbars, adorned with wide, finely molded scalloped panels that follow the characteristic contours of the Provençal Rocaille style. The warm grain of the walnut, with shades ranging from golden honey to deep brown, beautifully highlights the quality of the wood and the richness of its antique patina.

The sides, also curved, are adorned with large recessed molded panels, reflecting meticulous craftsmanship on all sides and allowing the piece to be displayed as a centerpiece. The side posts are delicately carved with foliage motifs extending down to the arched legs, which terminate in graceful scrolls.

The lower crossbar is one of the most spectacular features of this chest of drawers. It is deeply openwork and carved with an elaborate asymmetrical design of acanthus leaves, volutes, and rocaille motifs, executed with remarkable vigor—a hallmark of the finest Provençal workshops.

The piece retains its original marble top, with a molded edge, in a dark brown color veined with white, which perfectly complements the chest’s dynamic silhouette and contributes to its overall elegance.

The gilded bronze lock plates and drawer pulls, in the rocaille style, blend harmoniously with the piece as a whole and subtly highlight the design of the drawers.

The “D. Bariol” mark, visible on the piece, attests to its attribution to this Provençal cabinetmaker, whose works are highly sought after for the quality of their construction, the finesse of their carvings, and the elegance of their proportions.

With its balanced design, the exceptional quality of its walnut, its particularly lavish carved decoration, and its excellent state of preservation, this chest of drawers stands as a remarkable example of 18th-century Provençal furniture art. It will naturally find its place in a classical home, a collection of high-quality regional furniture, or a specialized antique gallery.

Period: 18th century, Louis XV period.
Origin: Provence.
Mark: D. Bariol.
Materials: solid carved and molded walnut, gilded bronze, antique brown marble top with white veining.
Condition: in very fine condition, beautiful antique patina, high-quality bronze fittings, antique marble showing slight signs of wear consistent with its age.