Description
A handsome early 19th century French Empire period four drawer commode handcrafted of walnut by talented artisans in Lyon, circa 1820s. Having a bookmatched flame walnut front, this antique Lyonnaise chest of drawers has a bleached finish and features a black fossil marble top that rests above a hidden apron drawer with three full size drawers below. Typical of the Empire period, two carved cylindrical columns adorned with decorative gilt bronze doric capitals and bases flank the bank of drawers. Original gilt brass hardware adorns the three lower drawers. Raised on tall carved block feet.
This striking Lyonnaise commode is a perfect example of the type of chest of drawers that became popular in the early 1800s when Napoleon commissioned craftsmen and instructed them to ignore the opulent styles of 18th century monarchs. Napoleon preferred furniture inspired by the decorative motifs and characteristics of Greco-Roman models. A French style intended to clearly express the imperial majesty of Napoleonic France, Empire furniture is strong, masculine, and neoclassic in style. Characterized by a sense of balance and symmetry, motifs mirrored one another on each side. The scale of the drawers ensures an ample amount of storage wherever this commode is placed. A perfect choice for traditional or contemporary interiors.
