18th century Fine Antiques: French "provincial" and directorate commodes (decorative arts education)

This video adds to the first presentation of three iconic pieces from the past, three French commode tables from the Louis XV, Transitional, and Louis XVI styles. Here we see a very fine rococo commode made in the South of France, as well as the final chapter of 18th century commodes made in Paris. These decorative side tables invented at the end of the 17th century are called "commode" or "handy" in French, a name with mysterious origins which perhaps arises from how side table without such drawers would be far less handy!

Southern French furniture, sometimes what first comes to mind with the term "provincial," is not loosely all furniture made in the provinces outside of Paris, but rather work having been made in the Southern department of Provence (or thereabouts). The solid walnut commode could have also been made in the neighboring Occitanie region, in a city such as Nîmes, which is nevertheless quite close to Provence. For this reason, the loose term in French to designate southern French works is not "provincial" which would refer to any region in the country and connotate work which is a little more rustic, but rather "Meridionale," meaning close to the South (or in this case close to the Mediterranean).

The heavily brass adorned Parisian commode is a particularly fine example of French style during the short lived and transitional directorate period (also the French Revolution). Much beyond this directorate commode in quality and complication of decor one would have something akin to a state piece with little domestic comfort.

As usual, I hope that these videos will enhance your collecting and provide access to useful, excellent period comparison against which new collectors can judge the antique pieces they consider. This furthers as well the discussion of the difference between general antiques, and these earlier, pre-industrial works of decorative art.

Many thanks to all viewers and subscribers,

Cole Myers
Myers & Monroe, LLC