Louis XV Kingwood GiltBronze Commode, Stamped "Rubestuck", ca. 1765

Object Description

A Louis XV gilt bronze-mounted kingwood commode, stamped on the top of the left front stile carrying the name of M F Rubestuck (1722-1785).
The commode displays a bombe front, with two small top drawers and one large bottom drawer, raised on four tall legs triangular in section terminating in gilt-bronze sabots. Veneered on a carcase of oak, set with extensive gilt-bronze mounts featuring motifs of acanthus scrolls and flowers. The foliate handles and key surround are finely cast and chased as are the gilt-bronze mounts of the forecorners featuring scrolls, shell cartouches and floral pendants. The downward curving apron at the front centred by a gilt-bronze acanthus mount. The slab of shaped pink and grey marble on the top.

Object History

Francois Rubestuck (1722-1785) was a prolific producer of high quality furniture, originating from the German state of Westphalia, he came to Paris, drawn by the opportunities offered to fine craftsmen by the strength of its luxury market. Rubenstuck began his career as a free workman in the faubourg Saint-Antoine, became maître in 1766 and set up shop at first in the rue de la Roquette and later in the rue de Charenton. He worked in a variety of styles from the Rococo to neoclassical and was also well known for the use of lacquer and vernis martin.

Object Literature

Comparative literature:
Pierre Kjellberg: Le Mobilier Francais du XVIIIe Sie`cle, Paris 2008, p. 777-783, fig. p. 778 und 781.

Object Condition

Very good. Wear consistent with age and use. Minor fading

Object Details