Louis XV Period Carved And Parcel-gilt Red Lacquered Walnut Bombé "sauteuse" Commode, Provence

Louis XV Period Carved and Parcel-Gilt Red Lacquered Walnut Bombé "Sauteuse" Commode, Provence, circa 1740-1750

Description:

Elegant and highly decorative, this bombé "sauteuse" commode opens with two drawers in walnut, partly red lacquered and gilt, molded and carved with sinuous foliate reserves centered on a carved medallion. The deeply shaped, openwork apron unfolds into a heart motif flanked by shell carvings and foliate scrollwork, while the cambered legs, carved with foliate scrolls, extend the bombé movement of the façade with fluid grace. The solid walnut top is finished with a "bec de corbin" (crow's-beak) edge, a detail characteristic of Provençal furniture of the period.

This fine example of Provençal craftsmanship, made circa 1740-1750, reflects the skill of workshops in the South of France during the reign of Louis XV: a pronounced taste for curving forms and bold, vigorous carving, further enhanced here by the use of red lacquer and gilding that accentuate the relief of the carved decoration. These features, typical of southern French production, clearly distinguish this low, two-drawer "sauteuse" commode from contemporary Parisian work.

Technique:

Solid walnut, partly red lacquered and gilt, molded and carved. Solid walnut top with a "bec de corbin" edge.

Dimensions:

Height: 36 ¼ in (92 cm)

Length: 49 ¼ in (125 cm)

Depth: 28 ⅜ in (72 cm)

Condition:

Very good condition; restoration and general upkeep carried out in our workshops.