BY FREDERIC-LOUIS DURAND, PARIS, LATE 19TH/EARLY 20TH CENTURY

Frédéric-Louis Durand was part of a dynasty of 19th century French furniture makers, beginning his career as an apprentice to his father, Gervais-Maximilien-Eugène, and eventually training his own son, Pierre. The Durands were known for their faithful replicas of 18th century models including those by Jean-Henri Riesener and Adam Weisweiller. Although this particular commode does not appear to be based after a specific 18th century model, with its exquisite marquetry panels - including the central roundel emblematic of the sciences - and its finely chased bronzes, it clearly demonstrates the influence of the famed ébénistes on Durand's work.