Louis XV Rococo Bombé Commode with Burl Veneer & Gilt Ormolu Mounts

Design & Inspiration

Place this commode against a panelled wall and watch the room rearrange itself around it. The swelling bombé silhouette — that characteristic outward curve at the sides and front that made 18th-century French cabinetmakers famous across Europe — gives this piece a visual mass that no straight-sided chest could achieve. Every surface curves into the next with the confidence of a form that was perfected in the workshops of Paris between 1730 and 1770, faithfully reproduced here in the tradition of the Louis XV Rococo commode.

Materials & Craftsmanship

The carcass is built from Romanian solid redwood dried to under 10% humidity, ensuring dimensional stability across Egypt's variable climate. Over this, artisans have laid a richly figured burl walnut veneer — the swirling grain patterns catching light differently at every angle, creating the impression of depth and warmth that flat-cut veneers cannot replicate. The top surface is finished in a contrasting straight-grained veneer in a herringbone chevron pattern, a detail that confirms the cabinetmaker's mastery of surface composition. The entire piece is sealed under a high-gloss lacquer that amplifies the natural warmth of the walnut tones.

Dimensions & Details

Three generous drawers are framed by gilt brass ormolu mounts — the defining decorative vocabulary of the Louis XV period. Rocaille-style keyhole escutcheons sit centrally on each drawer face, flanked by scrolling foliate pull handles that sweep outward in the characteristic C-scroll of Rococo ornament. Corner mounts at the upper angles are cast in detailed acanthus leaf relief. The apron beneath the lower drawer is shaped into a flowing cartouche form, terminating in a further gilt mount at the centre. Four slender cabriole legs — shod in gilt brass sabots — carry the piece with the grace that is the hallmark of the period. Gilt brass stringing lines the drawer divisions and the shaped top edge, providing linear definition against the richness of the burl ground.

Handcrafted in Egypt

Every element of this commode — from the hand-laid veneer bookmatching to the individually cast and chased brass mounts — is produced by skilled craftsmen in Egypt, working within a tradition of European furniture reproduction that Brass & Wood has refined over many years. The result is a piece that honours the intention of the original 18th-century ébéniste: a chest of drawers that functions as a work of art. It belongs in a master bedroom, a formal hallway, or a reception salon where guests are meant to notice it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What materials is this commode made from?

The structure is Romanian solid redwood (under 10% humidity). The exterior surfaces are finished in a burl walnut veneer with a high-gloss lacquer. All decorative mounts, handles, escutcheons, sabots, and stringing are solid brass with a gilt gold finish, cast and chased by hand.

Is assembly required?

Only minimal assembly is required — typically attaching any removable hardware components. The main carcass arrives fully constructed.

Can this commode be customized?

Yes. Brass & Wood offers customization options including alternative brass finishes (antique gold, silver, bronze), different veneer selections, and modified dimensions. Contact our team to discuss your requirements before ordering.