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French furniture of the 18th century & French figurative paintings
Stamped Jean-Charles Saunier, master cabinetmaker in 1743
Dimensions : W 125cm D 68cm H 89cm
This important commode was made by Jean-Charles Saunier during the reign of Louis XV. Around 1755, the power of the curves accompanied the decorative richness of the marquetry: The Rocaille style is the height of refinement in Louis XV furniture. The latest improvements in cabinetmaking techniques were enhanced by the arrival of a variety of precious woods from the Americas, and by ever-richer ornamentation of chased and gilded mercury bronzes.
This commode is a perfect example of this stylistic culmination of the Louis XV period, whose curves would be interrupted a few years later by a gradual return to straight lines, perfect symmetry and the reuse of classical ornamentation with Greek and Roman antique decorations.
At the outset of Jean-Charles Saunier's design for this chest of drawers, it's important to observe the lines and volumes. A technical feat, the horizontal and vertical curves are extremely generous, not only on the front but also on the sides. The two drawers are "crossbarless" to allow a continuous marquetry pattern. Unsurprisingly for a piece of furniture of this level, this feature requires much more work and, above all, greater precision.
The marquetry is composed of amaranth, satinwood, rosewood and sycamore stained green or natural. In double-framed reserves, the marquetry creates a superb décor featuring a parrot on leafy branches, flowers and a pomegranate.
The ornamentation of leafy bronzes is wonderfully chased and gilded with mercury. The red marble top with its double corbin beak is a very fine Griotte imported from Italy.
The chest of drawers is double-stamped "I. C. SAUNIER" with the JME hallmark. Furniture by this great master can be found in the Musée des Arts Décoratifs and the Musée du Louvre in Paris. This commode is in remarkable condition, with almost all of its original veneer. Both the structure and the darkening of the drawers are also original. The chest of drawers has been professionally restored and is in perfect condition.
