Louis XVI commode with Japanese Lacquer panels and marble top

A Louis Seize commode with in the center a large Japanese lacquer panel with the image of a phoenix in flight soaring over an oriental landscape with pagoda. This panel is flanked by two panels with each a round Japanese lacquer panels with flower and foliage decoration. These round panels are framed with bows executed in maple wood.

The phoenix is a mythological creature who, when it has reached the end of its lifecycle, will build itself a nest and set it aflame. Burning both the nest and itself. From the ashes a new young phoenix is born. The phoenix represents rebirth, transformation and strength.