Large Elm Burl And Walnut Arbalète Commode, Rhône Valley, Régence Period

Large Elm Burl and Walnut Arbalète Commode, Rhône Valley, Régence Period

Description:
This large commode in molded and carved elm burl and walnut features an "arbalète" (crossbow-shaped) façade fitted with four drawers in three tiers: two small drawers above, flanking a central burl panel set between two half-oval reserves carved with gadroons, and two long drawers below. Each drawer is enlivened by molded, stepped reserves, and the two lower tiers are centered on a molded circular medallion holding the keyhole escutcheon.

The shaped, openwork stiles terminate in scrolled feet and are joined by a scalloped apron, centered on a carved shell framed by scrolls. The Rouge Rance marble top, veined in white and gray, with a "bec de corbin" (crow's-beak) edge, follows the movement of the façade. The gilt bronze mounts comprise drop handles with foliate rosettes and rocaille keyhole escutcheons.

Made during the Regency of Philippe d'Orléans (1715-1723), this commode illustrates the period of transition in which furniture moved away from the rigid grandeur of the reign of Louis XIV toward greater suppleness, heralding the curves of the Louis XV style. The arbalète form, characteristic of these years, is one of its most accomplished expressions.

Workshops in the Rhône Valley, between the Lyonnais and the Dauphiné, distinguished themselves through their mastery of regional woods, foremost among them elm burl, whose cloud-like figuring in honey and amber tones is shown here to full advantage.

With its generous size, the vigor of its moldings, and the quality of its carving, this commode attests to the refinement achieved by these provincial workshops in the early 18th century.

Technique:
Elm burl and walnut, molded and carved. Arbalète-shaped façade with four drawers in three tiers. Shaped, openwork stiles with scrolled feet, scalloped apron centered on a shell. Rouge Rance marble top with a "bec de corbin" edge. Gilt bronze handles and keyhole escutcheons. Rhône Valley work, Régence period.

Dimensions:
Height: 33 7/8 in (86 cm)
Width: 58 11/16 in (149 cm)
Depth: 30 11/16 in (78 cm)

Condition:
Good condition, attractive old patina; routine restoration and upkeep.