17th Century French Louis XIII Oak Three Drawer Commode / Chest of Drawers

Description

This exceptional 17th century French Louis XIII commode was handcrafted from solid old growth French oak by talented rural artisans … more This exceptional 17th century French Louis XIII commode was handcrafted from solid old growth French oak by talented rural artisans in Normandy that were skilled in the ways of woodworking, yet using more rudimentary hand tools than were available to the prominent furniture craftsmen of Paris at the time. Having a contoured and beveled pegged top over three full-width drawers with original hand forged escutcheons and iron pulls, this rare commode features raised à pointe de diamants or diamond tipped decoration on the sides and a serpentine front on the three drawers. The diamond point pattern, which was first used in the early 1600s, is typical of Louis XIII style and was a common decorative theme, most often used on armoires and buffets rather than chests of drawers. The piece stands on four hand carved feet and the drawers open to reveal spacious storage. Two of the drawers retain the original locking mechanism although no keys are available. The locking mechanism on the middle drawer has been removed and the bottom drawer has been repaired, at some point in the lifetime of the piece. There is a partial sticker attached to the back which we believe to be a movers label.

49.5"W x 26.75"D x 33"H less