A Highly Interesting Mid 19th Century North European Japanned or Lacquered Commode in the Rococo MannerClearly inspired by French Louis XV forms, this wonderful commode is of double serpentine shape. This means that both the sides and the front of the piece are of serpentine outline. This form is also used for the shape of he apron beneath the drawer fronts and is echoed in the cabriole legs. Unlike a typical French commode however, this piece does not have a marble top but instead is decorated throughout with the finest quality chinoiserie japanning-in order words a form of decorative painting incorporating layers of varnish in imitation of Chinese and Japanese lacquer work. The decoration is set against a fine red background which retains its original rich colouring. European japanning is quite light sensitive and so it often fades to a pinkish colour when exposed to direct sunlight for a prolonged period and the condition of this piece is exemplary. It has obviously been well cared for over the years. The decoration takes the form of various imagined scenes of ''Chinese'' life with exotic figures, animals and buildings enclosed with gilt borders and floral decoration on the legs and pilasters. The best japanning is very different from pure painted work, incorporating as it does multiple layers of relief in the work. The figure on the back of the horse-like creature on the lower drawer for example is worked in high relief, the creature in a medium relief and the bird above in very low relief. The decoration is of high quality and in great condition throughout and is complemented by the fine lines of the piece and the original rococo form escutcheon plates. The sides of the piece are decorated just as profusely as the drawer fronts but it is the top where the finest decoration is to be found. The centre of the top features a large and elaborate building in the Chinese style with elements of pagoda architecture and the bridge on the right hand side, with...