Antique Liegoise Serpentine Country French Commode ~ Chest of Drawers

Antique Liegoise Serpentine Country French Commode ~ Chest of Drawers was crafted in the manner of Louis XIV by the master artisans of the storied region around Liege, where fine craftsmanship and quality products have been produced for centuries.  Using old-growth oak, the artisans created a casework with serpentine sides and an arbalette, or archer's bow front facade.  The solid plank top has been intricately contoured and double beveled to follow the casework's contours, creating an attractive surface.  Rounded, carved cornerposts and four scrolled and carved legs tipped with cloven hoof feet provide support.  The serpentine sides are intriguing, with a recessed panel framed with double-beveled molding and carved with stylized shell and foliate motifs all on the difficult curvature created by the serpentine effect.  Each of three drawers is lavishly carved onto the arbalette facade with motifs that complement yet are different from the sides in a display of artistic flair, then fitted with cast brass pulls.  The apron below follows the same contour and is carved with a magnificent scallop shell flanked by acanthus leaf foliates for a stunning finishing touch.  Finish has been stripped and sealed to reveal the natural beauty and patina of the old-growth oak.
Circa early 1900s
Measures 35H x 40.5W x 17.5D