A 19th century French period Louis Philippe commode handcrafted in Avignon, in the heart of Provence, circa 1840s. Beautifully constructed of walnut and distinguished by an exceptional bookmatched burled walnut façade, this handsome chest of drawers features its original Carrara marble top and the restrained architectural lines characteristic of the Louis Philippe period, allowing the extraordinary figure of the walnut to take center stage.
The façade is arranged with four drawers, beginning with a distinctive upper doucine drawer concealed within the gently curved molding beneath the marble top. This characteristic Louis Philippe feature follows the soft ogee profile of the case and creates an elegant transition between the cool white marble and richly figured walnut below.
Three additional drawers form the main body of the commode. Their fronts are faced in beautifully bookmatched burled walnut, carefully arranged so that the grain radiates outward in dramatic mirrored patterns. Swirling knots, feathered figuring, and broad arcing lines meet along the center of each drawer, creating an almost painterly effect across the façade. The pattern changes subtly from drawer to drawer while maintaining the symmetry of the whole — a wonderful demonstration of the cabinetmaker's eye for selecting and matching exceptionally figured wood.
Each of the three lower drawers is centered by an ornate brass escutcheon, its warm golden tone providing a restrained decorative accent against the deep walnut. Rather than relying on elaborate mounts or carving, the commode derives its richness from the natural beauty of the wood itself, very much in keeping with the quieter elegance of the Louis Philippe period.
The case is framed by simple upright stiles and rests upon a substantial molded plinth terminating in characteristic pistolet feet. Their subtly curved, almost bracket-like profile gives the otherwise rectilinear case a graceful finish at floor level while retaining the solid, grounded presence typical of Provençal furniture of the period.
Above, a thick Carrara marble top with softly rounded corners provides a beautiful contrast to the warmth and movement of the walnut below. Its creamy white ground and delicate gray veining lighten the composition while giving the commode the polished finish expected of a fine French piece.
The walnut has developed a particularly beautiful patina with age — warm chestnut, honey, and deeper chocolate tones moving through the highly figured grain. Small variations, knots, and irregularities remain visible throughout, adding depth and character rather than obscuring the craftsmanship of the piece.
The commode reflects the region's long tradition of accomplished cabinetmaking while embracing the cleaner, more restrained aesthetic that followed the elaborate styles of the 18th century. With its dramatic bookmatched burl, classical proportions, original-style brass detailing, and pale Carrara marble, it is a wonderful example of the understated elegance of French Louis Philippe furniture.
*Currently aboard our latest container from France and Italy. Additional photographs will be added once this piece arrives in Birmingham — but you don’t have to wait for the boat. Use Comments & Inquiries to ask about purchasing it before arrival.
Dimensions:
h - 32.5"
w - 38"
d - 16.5"
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A CLOSER LOOK REVEALS
Origin: Avignon, France
Date: 19th century
Period: Louis Philippe
Material: Walnut and burled walnut with Carrara marble top and brass hardware
Design: Four-drawer commode with restrained Louis Philippe lines and bookmatched burled walnut façade
Top Drawer: Upper doucine drawer integrated into the gently curved molding beneath the marble top
Front: Three lower drawer fronts faced in dramatic bookmatched burled walnut with mirrored grain patterns
Hardware: Ornate brass escutcheons centered on the lower drawers
Top: Pale Carrara marble with softly rounded corners and subtle gray veining
Feet: Characteristic pistolet feet beneath a molded plinth base
Patina: Warm naturally aged walnut with honey, chestnut, and deep chocolate tones highlighting the figured grain
Condition: Very good antique condition with age-appropriate wear
Use: Ideal as a bedroom commode, entry chest, living room case piece, or statement storage piece
Dimensions: 32.5"H × 38"W × 16.5"D
Sold: Individually
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