A George III serpentine mahogany commode circa 1770

in the manner of Thomas Chippendale, the cross-banded top above a drawer and a pair of cupboard doors enclosing a shelf, on splayed supports

Previously sold Sotheby`s New York, Furniture and Decorations, January 23rd 1998, designated Property from the Estate of Louise Bralower.

Subsequently sold Sotheby`s New York, Important English Furniture and Decorations from a Private Collection, 21st October 2005, lot 32, sold $168,000. 

 

Comparative Literature

R. W. Symonds, Furniture Making in 17^th and 18^th Century England, London, 1955

Christopher Gilbert, The Life and Work of Thomas Chippendale, London, 1978

In overall very good condition. Some old marks and scratches consistent with age and use. Good colour and patination. The doors are slightly uneven consistent with characteristic shrinkage of the main and secondary timbers.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The present elegant commode can be compared with other English commodes dating from the 1770s which have the same overall serpentine profile above shaped aprons and with slightly hipped and moulded front corners continuing to outswept feet, features which are derived from contemporary French models. This outline was used by Thomas Chippendale for a mahogany commode he supplied to Goldsborough Hall, and also on a superb marquetry example supplied by him, but not made by him, for Nostell Priory (Gilbert op. cit., p. 127, fig. 227, p. 124, fig. 220). Another unprovenanced example by an unknown maker has two doors ornamented with oval panels of flame-veneer of similar character to the first of the present commode (Symonds, op. cit., fig. 167). The most unusual feature of the present commode is the manner in which the doors are curved inwards at the centre, a feature which does not appear to be recorded elsewhere.