Object Description
Antique ormolu mounted mahogany and Chinese lacquer commode by Maison Forest
French, Late 19th Century
Height 95cm, width 166.5cm, depth 61cm
Crafted in late 19th century France by Maison Forest (founded in 1883), a Parisian firm renowned for the crafting of high-end furniture such as the commode in Mayfair Gallery’s collection.
The commode is surmounted by a richly veined marble top, its red and cream colouration beautifully matching the rest of the design. Below is a mahogany frieze mounted with superbly cast ormolu mounts.
The drawer fronts as well as sides are inlaid with magnificent Chinese lacquer panels. When viewed together, all the panels create one charming scene set in a woodland. A bright brown bridge centres the panel, while walking on and around it are groups of people dressed in traditional Chinese garments. The use of various colours and textures aids in the creation of a fascinating scene. The Chinese lacquer panels are an unusual addition and make this commode a very desirable antique.
The escutcheons are oval with acanthus leaf detailing while the drawer handles are garland-shaped. Elegant ormolu banding shaped as draping adorns the three sides of the commode. The four oval uprights are intricately carved and decorated with further ormolu mounts. The piece stands on four fluted tapering feet with ormolu sabots.
The maker’s label can be found on top of the drawer reading ‘Maison Forest / H. Bézier / Sue 2 / Paris / 31, Rue Cambacéres’, and ‘FF’ stamps feature on the reverse of some mounts.
Of a wonderful and intricate design, this Louis XVI style commode would be a marvellous addition to the appropriate interior space.