Here is the restoration of a small Louis XV style commode, made of solid satinwood and ribboned satinwood. Curved on all sides, including the back, it opens with three drawers. In addition, a pull-out candle holder opens at the back. It comes from La Rochelle and dates from the 18th century.
Its top, molded with a corbel-like edge and highlighted by a cavetto molding, is made of ribboned satinwood. This wood is repeated on the front and sides. In contrast, the base is made of straight-grain satinwood, with "snail" feet ending in split goat's hoof feet. Its unusual proportions are noteworthy, but above all, its harmonious curves in both plan and elevation.
Usually, "all sides" refers to a chest of drawers curved on its three visible sides. Here, however, the term takes on its full meaning: the piece is crafted on all four sides. It therefore served as a small living room chest of drawers, placed in the center of the room. At the back, a small pull-out shelf holds a candlestick. Furthermore, a simple peg prevents the top drawer from tipping over.
This refinement is matched by another: the finely chiseled keyhole escutcheons are made of silver. This luxury confirms that it is a custom-made piece of furniture.
First, we filled the gaps with solid satin wood. Then, we re-glued the cracks and joints in the wood. Next, a light stripping allowed us to apply a Roubo wax polish. Finally, we cleaned and deoxidized the silver keyhole escutcheons using ultrasound.
To see previous restorations : https://ebenisterie-mathieuvath.fr/en-ce-moment-a-latelier/
