Object Description
A very elegant French 1940’s Mid Century Modernist fossil marble topped commode in the style of Jules Leleu.
French circa 1940
Of chic design, drawing from the early 19th Century Greco-Roman inspired Empire patterns, this wonderful commode oozes quality and style.
I have yet to be able to attribute this commode to a maker but variously colleagues have thought Jules Leleu although I have not found anything textbook to be able to attribute it too him just in the style of. It looks certain to be a Parisian maker as it shows all the signs but with no signature, my very experienced marble man said one of the best fossil marbles he’s handled in a long time and thought to be a Kilkenny black fossil marble….again showing no expense spared with the French cabinet maker importing this marble to France.
The oblong well figured fossiliferous marble top over a pair of pin hinged mahogany doors having gilt brass open circular panels within turned and tapering front columns, each with gilt ringed headers and domed sabots.
Of superb quality this commode resembles the work of some of the top French Modernist Designers of the 1930s/1940s period. It is neither avant-garde nor Art Deco in the manner of J.E. Ruhlmann but had some of the latter’s feeling for luxury and finish.
Fine quality and imposing large commode which will work in any setting.
Dimensions
Width 58 1/2 inches – 149cm
Height 37 1/2 inches – 95cm
Depth 25 1/4 inches – 64cm