Tomb chest of drawers attributed to Mathieu Criaerd, 18th century
Chest of drawers, Louis XV, XVIII

Tomb chest of drawers in rosewood marquetry with a strongly curved front and sides.

The chest of drawers opens on the front with four drawers. The three rows are separated by brass fluting.

Rich and fine ornamentation of chiseled and gilded bronzes. Espagnolette falls on the uprights, opulent keyholes, drop handles with chimeras, and a lion's muzzle on the apron.

Top in royal red marble with a groove.

Although not stamped, this chest of drawers exhibits all the characteristics of Mathieu Criaerd's work. The shapes of his tomb chests are particularly lively. The veneer is plain and highlights the particularly refined and developed bronze ornamentation. The bronzes are gilded, and the same dragon or chimera handles and keyholes are found in Criaerd's work. The rows of drawers are separated by brass grooves and are found individually on each side of the chest of drawers. The master cabinetmaker also regularly chooses royal red marble for his tomb-shaped chests of drawers.

Mathieu Criaerd is one of the most illustrious cabinetmakers of the 18th century. His commodes were featured in illustrious residences such as the Château de Choisy and Louvigny. Some of his works are now housed in the Louvre. It should be noted that he also worked for several merchants, such as Oeben.

Louis XV period work attributed to Mathieu Criaerd. Original bronzes and locks.

Length: 128 cm
Height: 87 cm
Depth: 65 cm