Venetian Louis XV Walnut Chest of Drawers, 18th Century

Venetian chest of drawers in walnut, walnut burl, thuja wood, and poplar interior, measuring 105 x 135 x 55 cm, centrally curved in an elegant and delightful manner typical of the early 18th century. The incessant flow of undulation forms the structure of this wonderful and unusual piece of furniture; it is precisely the masterful quality of the carving, combined with details of refined cabinetmaking, such as the skillful use of thuja wood on the sides or in the upper part, which enhances the fluid linear rhythm of the walnut surfaces, and confirms its geographical origin, in addition to all the end-grain woods found inside the piece. This highly detailed chest of drawers stands out for the elegance of its shapes, lines, and imaginative execution. The superb central movement, in the Venetian compositional style, is combined with the use of high-quality materials and a robust structure, creating a truly sui generis uniqueness. The technique of inlaying light thuja wood into walnut is a typical Venetian characteristic. Also significant is the consistency of these types of decoration, which develop with broad designs, involving the entire front, sides, and top of the piece, with decorative methodologies in some respects analogous to those of the chests of drawers from Lake Garda. The fact remains that this curved chest of drawers with a refined and consistent decorative inlay is a great example of 18th-century Italian cabinetmaking. The paintings and works of art published here are my exclusive property and consequently are always available to be viewed in person, by appointment, in my exhibition locations in Sanremo and Brescia. The artwork, like all our objects, is sold with a FIMA photographic certificate of authenticity and lawful provenance; this document identifies the object, adding value to the item. We personally handle and organize the packaging and shipping of works of art with insurance worldwide. Dr. Riccardo Moneghini Art Historian