Antique Dutch Bombe Oak Chest of Drawers, Painted Finish, circa 1800

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About the Item

Receive our new selections direct from 1stdibs by email each week. Please click Follow Dealer below and see them first! A Dutch bombe oak chest of drawers from Holland circa 1800 with a painted finish. This exceptionally wide chest has three drawers that extend from side to side to provide a vast amount of storage. Before the era of walk in closets chest such as this example were used both for the safekeeping of personal belongings as well as luxury furnishings that indicated the affluence and prosperity of a home. The chest has a shaped top as well as front corners that sweep down and out from the top. In addition the front of the chest has a dramatic bow from top to bottom that highlights the curve of the two front legs. In furniture discriptions this shape is referred to as "bombe" with the accent on the final "e"-pronounced bom-bay. This shape originated in Regence period France (1715-1723) and met with great success all over the world because of its striking profile. Each of the three drawers retain the original pulls whose decorative design enhances the appearance of the chest. The hardware is a matched set made expressly for the chest. Notice how the pulls on the left and right are mirror images of each other while the centre open work lock opening covers (known as escutcheons) are entirely symmetrical and balance the pulls on the left and right. The front corners of the chest sweep down and forward from the top with a flat surface that emphasizes the undulating quality that makes the chest so memorable. At the base of each front corner the chest stands upon very distinctive feet. The shape is reminiscent of a particular Chinese motif seen on imported porcelain that was widely collected among affluent persons. The motif is that of a dragon clasping the pearl of wisdom in its claw. Only the front feet are carved with this figure because only the front of the chest was illuminated by fire and candle light within the home. In addition to the shape of the chest the painted surface further enhances its beauty. The multiple layers of paint create a variegated effect and the original pattern of interlocking lines has faded with use. The depth of colour evident on the chest is rather luxurious and provides a wonderful background for displaying a collection.

Dimensions:
Height: 32 in (81.28 cm)Width: 52 in (132.08 cm)Depth: 23 in (58.42 cm)
Style:
Régence (In the Style Of)
Materials and Techniques:
Oak,Gilt,Painted
Place of Origin:
Netherlands
Period:
19th Century
Date of Manufacture:
c.1800
Condition:
Wear consistent with age and use.
Seller Location:
Houston, TX
Reference Number:
Seller: DG721stDibs: LU86681009920

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Materials

Mahogany, Walnut, Burl

Antique Dutch Baroque Mahogany Burled Walnut Bombe Chest Of Drawers

$1,396 Sale Price

30% Off