French 19th Century Empire Painted Commode

Dimensions: 33 ⅞” H x 42 ¼” W x 20 ¾” D

A French Empire three-drawer commode from the 19th century with its original marble top. A more recent artistic update with a Caribbean-blue painted finish compliments the gilt bronze accents. The top surface of dark, nearly black stone is dotted with the fossilized remains of ancient marine animals, among the curious patterns of marbleization. Note that the stone displays the expected patina of scratches and other signs of the commode’s historic age so please view the image gallery for more details. A pair of gilt bronze caryatid busts top the inverted pilasters which flank the stack of three, wide drawers that open by brass lion ring pulls. Escutcheons on each drawer front are purely decorative, no key is present, but their ornate wing motifs underscore the mythical and fantastic inspiration the Empire taste is known for. Contrasting slate blue paint has been applied as a decorative border around the drawer hardware and defines the pilasters further, which draws the eye downward to the wonderful paw feet at the floor. The matte paint remains mostly smooth with some areas of mottled craquelure. Cleaned and tightened, this antique is ready for your interior. Be sure to see the detailed images to see the current condition of this unique painted chest of drawers.