A FRENCH ORMOLU-MOUNTED AMARANTH, SYCAMORE, HAREWOOD, CITRONNIER, MARQUETRY AND PARQUETRY COMMODE

The present lot is based on a celebrated commode delivered by Jean-Henri Riesener for Marie-Antoinette’s bedroom at the Château de Marly in 1782, and today in the collections of the Château de Versailles (OA 6628). Richly-inlaid and adorned with exquisitely chased mounts, Riesener’s luxurious commode displays many of the maker’s hallmarks and would, no doubt, have pleased the French queen to whom a subsequent commode – which is also relatable to the present lot – was delivered at Saint Cloud shortly thereafter. Today, this second commode is in the collections of the Louvre (OA 12012). In both cases, the intricate trellis pattern parquetry and delicate central medallion display Riesener’s virtuosity as do the splendid naturalistic mounts of scrolling floral garlands and trailing swags. Widely admired in the 18th century, Riesener created some of the Ancien Régime’s most splendid furniture for a prestigious clientele extending across the royal family and highest echelons of the nobility. In the 19th century, his work was highly sought after and splendid reproductions – including the present cabinet – were created by many of the era’s finest craftsmen.