Small Louis XV / Louis XVI Transition Style Chest of Drawers, France, Late 1700s

Louis XV and Louis XVI Transitional Style Chest of Drawers, end. S. XVIII - France


Exquisite small chest of drawers, Transitional style between Louis XV and Louis XVI, made in France, ca. 1790, Jean-Charles Ellaume workshop. It features an impressive marble top resting on a mixtilinear front of two registers, of large capacity, with twin ormolu handles in the form of a laurel leaf. The chest of drawers is raised on galved legs, the two front ones with sablots. All of these fittings are of mercury gilded bronze and then chiseled. However, this piece stands out for the marquetry on three of its sides, where different fruit wood veneers are used, providing a rich tonal variety to the geometric pattern, as well as other ornaments with knightly ornamentation. It is completed with the original locks. Fine lines and typical of the period, a chest of drawers of the highest quality, worthy of a place of honor in the home.

Origin Swiss private collection. Sticker under the marble, Maison Steiger & Cie in Switzerland.

Transitional Style

Made just at the moment of transition between the Louis XV and Louis XVI styles. During this period, characteristics of both styles were mixed, as seen in this piece. The Louis XV is identified with the Rococo, including a more profuse and detailed decoration, while the Louis XVI contrasts with the previous one by its simplicity, which again appreciates the rigor of geometric shapes and straight lines, inspiration it receives directly from classical architecture. It is characterized by lightness, harmony and proportion, leaving aside the heaviness and excess of the styles it follows. It stands as a more discreet and elegant style.

It is an exquisite, refined and timeless piece, suitable for any space and environment, to which it will bring great elegance. It is ideal to combine with modern and design art.
Dimensions: 84 x 70 x 40 cm.