When compared with furniture from other periods, Louis XV offerings, such as this walnut commode from circa 1750, have much softer and shapelier forms. Notice the undulating lines to the front of this chest of drawers, which is known in France as arbalete, or crossbow front. Elaborate bronze dore hardware in the form of asymmetrical Rococo leaves draws the viewer’s eyes to the contoured front, with each of the three tiers of drawers being adorned by a pair of large handles flanking the keyplate. Even the rectilinear sides are softened by panels with high-arching en chapeau molding. The front apron has yet another arbalete carving, set between two cabriole front feet with a thick protruding curve. Additional depth can be seen on the feet, as a result of the overlayed molding that continues to the two block feet in the back. The original finish has been lightly scrubbed, which gives the wood a golden, sandy hue, allowing our Louis XV crossbow front commode to be paired with almost any color palette.

CONDITION: Good antique condition. Minor losses as a result of woodworm, with old fills and a small, restored section to the top. Light age separations. No key. There are inconsistencies with the scrubbing process, leaving trace areas of the original finish.