A commode is a decorative chest of drawers or low cabinet originating in France. These pieces typically feature a flat top of marble or timber and stand on short legs. They served primarily in formal rooms and bedrooms for storage and display.

How do I spot revival pieces?

Revival commodes date from the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, copying earlier eighteenth-century Louis styles. They often utilise machine-cut veneers and standardised mount castings. Examination of the interior construction timbers helps differentiate original eighteenth-century carcasses from later interpretations.

Are marble tops original?

Many commodes feature shaped marble tops fitted directly to the wooden carcass. These slabs match the serpentine or straight profiles of the furniture beneath them. Replacement marble occasionally occurs during a piece's history, often visible through alterations to the upper timber frame.

Where should I place it?

These cabinets suit reception rooms, hallways, and principal bedrooms as statement storage. Their finished backs and sides allow placement against walls or within open room layouts. Consider the clearance needed for opening drawers and doors when positioning shaped or bombe profiles.