Commode

Techniques - Veneered with panels of Japanese lacquer, the borders japanned, on an oak carcase, with gilt-bronze mounts and a griotte d'Italie marble slab

Artist/designer - Vanrisamburgh, Bernard II, born after 1696 - died 1766 to 1767

Place - Paris, France

Dimensions - Height 83.3 cm Width 115.2 cm Depth 53.3 cm

The fashion for integrating Asian lacquer panels (decorated with a resin varnish made from the sap of a tree) into European furniture was at its height in the mid-18th century when this commode (chest of drawers) was made. Lacquer from Japan or China was very costly, and the application of flat panels of lacquer on this type of swollen-fronted (or bombé) commode required a very high degree of skill. Bernard Vanrisamburg was one of the most eminent Paris craftsmen working in this style. The commode is likely to have been displayed in a grand reception room (or salon) or a bedroom.