"Double Ressaut" Satinwood Commode Stamped François BAYER

Stamped by François BAYER
Transition Louis XV-Louis XVI Period
Dimensions: H. 35.8 x W. 50.4 x D. 23 inches

Our commode was stamped by the cabinetmaker François BAYER, and it perfectly illustrates the style of the Transition Louis XV and Louis XVI Period. The idea of this stylistic period was not to get rid of the elegance of the curvature that comes with the Louis XV style. Therefore, the arrival of the neoclassical style in the middle of the 18th century initiated a return to straight lines, symmetry, and decorations that are reminiscent of antiquity.

Even more so than other styles, the Transition style does not tolerate mediocrity. The elegance that can be felt when looking at a Transition commode comes from very strict guidelines that the cabinetmaker must respect. For the assembly of our commode, the cabinetmaker used all of his talent and the latest techniques that were used at that time to be able to provide a piece of furniture probably intended for a client of high financial prestige:

- The curved legs are tall, slender, and their corners are convex.
- It is plated in satinwood, which is a precious wood of the same family as mahogany. There was a conscious effort by the cabinetmaker to work with the wood in a way that its grain is visible. It shows the precision that went into the workmanship of this commode.
- On the front of the commode, the two bottom drawers were designed without a visible “traverse”, which further accentuates the commode’s elegance. In the center of the commode, it is accentuated with a rounded “double ressaut”.
- The sides slightly flare outwards, which is reminiscent to the Louis XV style, but then they end with a rounded corner.
- The simplicity of the bronze ornamentation highlights the fineness of the carving. The bronze ornamentation on the corners, apron, feet, and handles were specifically designed for this commode.
- Lastly, this commode is topped off with a beautiful brèche d’Alep marble. At the time this commode was made, brèche d’Alep was the most valuable and popular marble.

François BAYER became a master in Paris on December 5, 1764. He is known for creating his best works of art during the Transition Period. However, Bayer is also known for his beautiful “à ressaut” commodes. As a result of his undeniable talent, Bayer was able to attract distinguished clients including the Countess of Custine, the Counts of Brancas, and the Counts of Saint-Cyr.

Museums:
Francois Bayer’s works of art are exhibited in prestigious collections including these museums:
- London, Victoria & Albert Museum
- Cleveland Museum of Art

Bibliography:
Pierre Kjellberg « Le mobilier français du XVIIIème siècle, Dictionnaire des ébénistes et des menuisiers », Les éditions de l’amateur.