Fine Marquetry Commode Attributed to Gaspare Bassani

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Fine Marquetry Commode Attributed to Gaspare Bassani

About the Item

Fine Milanese marquetry commode attributed to Gaspare Basanni, the rectangular top of quarter matched rosewood veneers with tulipwood and acanthus crossbanding, centered by an elaborate leaf and foliate medallion; the upper drawer with running acanthus leaves over the lower drawers, sans traverse, centered by a fine medallion of classical ruins; the sides with an urn issuing leaves, scrolls and flowers; the stiles with similar urn and flower inlays; all on square tapering legs. Accompanying this important commode is a report by Giuseppe Beretti, the noted Italian furniture scholar (in Italian). In it he argues the commode was made by Gaspare Basanni, a close collaborator of Giuseppe Maggiolini, one of the greatest furniture makers of his age. In an important discovery, Beretti identifies the source for the center medallion: a page from the work of Giuseppe Levati in the eight volume “The Antiquities of Herculaneum Exposed,” published in Naples between 1757-1792. See photo. There is a monogram to the bottom, reversed letters “A.B,” as seen in the photo. Beretti suggests this is the mark of an unknown furniture seller of the 19th century. Finally, this commode is in a remarkable state of preservation. While there are numerous minor veneer patches, it has never been refinished. The dark and delicate ink lines are intact throughout. Note, for instance, the trailing leaves on the two columns in the central medallion. Other details such as those on the urn and plinths are fresh and clear. Hardware is not original.

Attributed to:
Gaspare Bassani (Cabinetmaker)
Dimensions:
Height: 33.5 in (85.09 cm)Width: 49.5 in (125.73 cm)Depth: 23 in (58.42 cm)
Style:
Neoclassical (Of the Period)
Materials and Techniques:
Palisander,Tulipwood,Walnut
Place of Origin:
Italy
Period:
1790-1799
Date of Manufacture:
1790
Condition:
Wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses. Minor veneer patches, hardware replaced.
Seller Location:
St. Louis, MO
Reference Number:
Seller: 1-29231stDibs: LU85461787202