Chest of Drawers

Maker Unknown

Additional Title(s)

Commode

ClassificationsDECORATIVE ARTS

Date1740-1760, with later alterations

Mediumoak and pine carcase veneered with tulipwood; gilt-bronze mounts; griotte rouge marble top.

Dimensions32 3/4 x 51 3/8 x 25 in. (83.2 x 130.5 x 63.5 cm.)

DescriptionLouis XV marquetry commode mounted in bronze dore. Oblong top of Rance marble. Serpentine-shaped body, with two doors enclosing shelves. Finely chiselled bronze dore shoulder mounts, escutcheons, sabots, and pierced motif on the valanced skirt.

Credit LineThe Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens. Adele S. Browning Memorial Collection, gift of Mildred Browning Green and Honorable Lucius Peyton Green

Status

Not on view

Label TextAlthough many features of this commode originate in the 18th century, the construction of the doors suggests a later date. However, the many anomalies in the parquetry veneers imply a long history of transformation rather than a 19th-century date of manufacture. Such alterations to a piece of furniture were not uncommon, reflecting changing tastes and necessary repairs over the course of many owners.

Object number78.20.61