Fine Mid 19th Century North European Japanned or Lacquered Commode in the Rococo Manner

A Highly Interesting Mid 19th Century North European Japanned or Lacquered Commode in the Rococo Manner

Clearly 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 the extremely exaggerated camber, is charming and amusing.

It is difficult to be entirely sure as to precisely where this piece was made. The lack of a marble top makes it unlikely that the piece was made in France, as does the shape of the apron which is not typically seen on French pieces. The use of oak stiles likewise makes it unlikely that the piece is of Italian origin. It is therefore likely that the piece was made in Northern Europe, possibly Scandinavia. In the 18th century pieces of important japanned furniture were imported in to Sweden and Denmark in particular from the Grendey workshops in London and from the great French masters as well. The japanning tradition in Scandinavia was therefore highly influenced by both English and French styles and the present piece, with its fusion of those two influences, may well have been a product of craftspeople in that area working in the same idiom some 100 years later.

Northern European japanned furniture is not commonly encountered and any japanned or lacquered pieces in this sort of condition are rare survivals. This is a wonderfully decorative piece of furniture that will enhance any room.

Width: 51 inches - 129.5cm

Height: 32 1/4 inches - 81.5cm

Depth: 22 3/4 inches - 58cm

Loveday Antiques is a family run business originally established since 1969 in London.

Now in its second generation, Loveday Antiques specialises in an eclectic mix of 18th to 20th Century European furniture and works of art, with a strong emphasis on quality, uniqueness and colour.

As proud members of BADA & LAPADA, the largest association for professional art and antique dealers in the United Kingdom and members of CINOA, the worldwide association for antique dealers you can buy from us with 100% confidence and reassurance as we are committed to upholding and abiding by the strict standards of each association.

Our clients can rest assured that each item is as described and photographed.

All Items are sold with 100% satisfaction 14 day money back guarantee, return delivery will be charged for.

We deliver within the UK for usually between £60-£80 and ship worldwide with professional bespoke crating via air to almost all locations. Please contact us at Loveday Antiques with your full postal address for a very competitive quote.

Delivery within the mainland UK will usually be with 7 to 14 days but please allow up to 28 days. We also ship worldwide with a professional bespoke crating service and large International couriers via air and sea to almost all locations. Please contact us at Loveday Antiques with your full postal address for a very competitive quote.

GOODS

All items listed are in excellent condition having been restored using traditional methods by experienced cabinet makers and polishers keeping the original colour and patina wherever possible.

Please bear in mind you may find the usual markings with antique furniture that are commensurate with age which all add to beauty and uniqueness of the item.

VIEWINGS

We have a reputation for being long established antique dealers in London having had showrooms concurrently running in Islington, Chelsea and Ascot. We have relocated our new showroom, due to London overheads, easily reached between A1 or A10 to just outside of Hertford, Hertfordshire.

We will happily arrange for clients to be collected travelling via train. Local stations being Hertford North, Stevenage and Ware, all being a 10 minute drive from us.

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We have more than 40 years experience in supplying Antique furniture to the trade, public and interior designers from all parts of the world so please buy with confidence as we have passed the test of time.