Commode "à vantaux". France, Louis XV, c. 1750

Commode "à vantaux". France, Louis XV, c. 1750.
Oak wood frame; rosewood and rosewood marquetry; boxwood filleting; gilt bronze mounts and hardware; later "turquin de caunes" marble top.
The marquetry shows fractures in some areas.
Measurements: 107 x 150 x 58 cm.

Chest of drawers "à vantaux" with three registers and hinged doors. The entire surface of the furniture is veneered with Indian wood, being the decoration of geometric background games on the doors and sides, the first framed by herringbone plumeado and the second by an asymmetrical boxwood fillet. The gilded bronze mounts are located on the corners of the front gilded uprights ("chute d'angle"), as corner pieces, as well as on the feet ("sabots") and on the skirt ("cul-de-lampe").

A key element to recognize the period of the piece are the front corners that are hidden under the marble tabletop, formed by a pseudo stretcher frame, also characteristic of 18th century constructions, which is assembled by two large dovetails cut by hand. The back, with butt-jointed boards nailed vertically, is another element to check the period of the piece of furniture.

The Louis XV style is characterized by curved and asymmetrical shapes, exuberant ornamentation inspired by nature and exotic elements, the use of hardwoods with marquetry and gilding, and the creation of smaller, more comfortable furniture. It conveys lightness, grace and intimacy. In contrast, the later Louis XVI style returns to straight and symmetrical lines, with a more sober ornamentation of classical inspiration, appreciating the natural beauty of wood. The furniture maintains elegance, but with greater order and structure. Louis XVI arose as a reaction to the decorative excess of Louis XV, seeking a more classic and restrained aesthetic.