Italian Neoclassical Commode with Exceptional Brass Hardware
Italian Neoclassical Commode with Exceptional Brass Hardware
A fantastic three drawer Italian Neoclassical commode, of figured walnut and burl ash timbers, dating ca. 1810-1820. The format is related to early French Empire pieces, but in typically Italian style, every aspect is more dramatically articulated. The walnut has additional wood graining, giving it the more lively feel of rosewood, especially on the top. The sharp cavetto below the top leads down to the frieze of highly figured and luminous burl ash. The frieze is in fact a top drawer; handholds to open it are hidden just under the edge. Below that, two large drawers function smoothly with very large and fine ring handles mounted on rosette backplates to open them. Matching escutcheons ornament the drawer centers (with the large original iron locks inside- no keys). Square carved and tapered legs also have enhanced wood graining, and very nice brass mounts, including a spiffy and unusual brass molding above each flared block foot. Good antique condition with typical signs of age, some wear, scattered worming, good later finish.
H: 37 ½ W: 50 ⅜ D: 24 ½