French Walnut Commode Chest 18th Century

Name: 18th Century French Walnut Commode
Brand: Antique
SKU: SA1212743
Price: 1850 GBP
Availability: InStock

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Cataloguer’s Note

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Cataloguer’s note

Written by Sellingantiques from the dealer’s photographs and listing

ObjectChests of Drawers
Period18th century
StyleFrench Neoclassical
MaterialWalnut, Burr Walnut Veneer, Brass
ColourWarm Brown
MotifsBurr walnut drawer fronts, Fluted corner pilasters, Tapered turned legs, Brass drop handles
SizeH 90 cm (35 in) x W 130 cm (51 in) x D 60 cm (24 in)

This eighteenth-century French Neoclassical commode is formed with a plain walnut casing and burr walnut veneer panels in a warm brown colour. The rectangular top rests above three smaller drawers in the upper tier and two full-width drawers below, all fitted with original brass drop handles and keyhole escutcheons. Architectural details include fluted corner pilasters framing the drawer section and a carved fluted panel centered beneath the lower drawer. The piece is supported on tapered turned legs finished with brass capping. Dimensions are 90 cm high, 130 cm wide, and 60 cm deep. Such a chest of drawers provides versatile storage for a bedroom, hallway, or living area, serving as a functional surface for lamps, photographs, or decorative objects while adding period character to domestic interiors.

FAQs

Originating in France during the late 17th and 18th centuries, the commode is a low chest of drawers created to provide both decorative appeal and functional storage. Late 18th-century styles, particularly Louis XVI design, shifted toward Neoclassical symmetry, featuring straight lines, fluted columns, turned legs, and balanced proportions.

Cabinetmakers primarily utilised dense hardwoods such as French walnut, oak, and fruitwood. High-end pieces frequently featured figure-grained burr walnut veneers, hand-cast brass mounts, and steel keyhole escutcheons over solid oak or pine drawer linings.

Authentic period commodes exhibit hand-sawn timber marks, irregular dovetail jointing on the drawer construction, and hand-forged nails or wooden pegs. Original brass hardware will show subtle variations and natural surface oxidisation consistent with age.

An antique commode serves as a striking focal point in an entryway, dining area, or bedroom. Pairing the warm walnut tones with contemporary artwork, clean-lined ceramics, or a large mirror above creates an engaging visual dialogue between traditional and modern elements.

Regular dusting with a dry microfibre cloth and an occasional application of high-grade beeswax polish maintains the woods lustre. Keep the piece away from direct heat sources and high humidity fluctuations to prevent veneer lift or wood movement.

Michael Youll Antiques

18th Century French Walnut Commode

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