Louis XIV commode de maîtrise – Grenoble, first third of the 18th century

Louis XIV commode de maîtrise from the Dauphiné, with geometric veneer in Alpine woods, serpentine front, opening with three drawers arranged in three rows.

A very rare small model with excellent proportions and a construction identical to that of a full-size commode (dovetail joints, intermediate boards, etc.), suggesting that this is indeed a true maîtrise piece made as a demonstration of skill.

It should be noted that Louis XIV commodes de maîtrise are extremely rare. We are inclined to date this example as period, despite a provincial delay that must be taken into account—although this lag is fairly minimal in the Dauphiné, with leading cabinetmakers such as Chevalier, Hache and Mondon. At the very least, the piece clearly belongs to the period of Dauphiné Louis XIV commodes, the earliest examples of which date to the late reign of the Sun King or the Regency.

The cabinetmaker mastered the interplay of contrasts by juxtaposing wood species, and one will note the quality and variety of woods used in this small piece: primarily olivewood and olive burr, walnut and rosewood for the framing bands highlighted with double boxwood and ebonized hornbeam fillets, and finally pearwood and ash, all laid over a fir core.

The bronze mounts (added at a later date) are custom-made and of fine quality, both the escutcheons and the six gilt-bronze handles. The three period locks are functional and fitted with their key.

Condition: the commode is in superb original condition, requiring only a light revival of the old French-polish finish by our cabinetmaker. A few minor old veneer repairs, of no consequence.

Dimensions: 30.5 cm high × 39 cm wide × 23.5 cm deep.

Provenance: estate of a family of Lyon antique dealers.

Masterpiece work by a Grenoble cabinetmaker, first third of the 18th century.