Louis XV Rococo Bombé Commode with Burr Veneer & Pink Marble Top

Design & Inspiration

There is a particular confidence to a bombé commode — that outward swell of the carcass, swelling from the waist to the base like a held breath, is one of the most demanding forms in European cabinet-making. This piece draws from the Louis XV tradition at its most assured: the serpentine front, the shaped apron, the delicate cabriole legs terminating in gilt sabots, and three drawers arranged in the classic two-over-one configuration that defined French salon storage in the 1740s. Set it against a panelled wall or beneath a console mirror and the silhouette alone commands the room.

Materials & Craftsmanship

The carcass is built from Romanian solid redwood (humidity below 10%), providing the structural integrity that a bombé form demands — the complex curves of the body require a foundation that will not shift with seasonal humidity. Over this, a rich burr-wood veneer is hand-laid, its swirling flame-like grain catching light differently at every angle and lending the surface an almost painterly depth. The finish is high-gloss lacquer, polished to a mirror sheen that intensifies the warmth of the mahogany tones. Crowning the piece is a genuine pink-veined marble slab, its grey and rose striations adding cool mineral contrast to the warmth of the wood below.

Dimensions & Details

The gilt brass hardware is cast and hand-finished to replicate the vocabulary of Louis XV ormolu: each drawer bears a central cartouche mount — a pierced floral medallion with a cabochon centre — flanked by asymmetric bail handles whose scrolled backplates echo the C-curve language of the Rococo. Corner mounts at the waist and gilded sabot caps at the leg feet complete the ensemble. The interiors of the three drawers are cleanly finished, offering practical storage without compromising the visual integrity of the piece. The handcrafted construction ensures that every joint, every curve, and every fitted mount aligns with the precision the original form requires.

Handcrafted in Egypt

This commode is made to order in Egypt by Brass & Wood's artisan workshop, where traditional European joinery techniques are combined with hand-applied veneering and individually cast brass mounts. Each piece is inspected before dispatch. Customisation of marble colour, veneer tone, and brass finish is available on request — contact our team to discuss bespoke specifications.

Frequently Asked Questions

What materials is this commode made from?

The carcass is Romanian solid redwood (under 10% humidity), surfaced with a hand-laid burr-wood veneer and high-gloss lacquer. The top is genuine marble in a pink-veined tone. All hardware — handles, cartouche mounts, corner mounts, and sabot feet — is cast brass with a gold finish.

Is assembly required?

Minimal assembly only. The marble top and any transit-protection elements are fitted on-site; the carcass and drawers arrive fully assembled and finished.

Can this piece be customised?

Yes. Brass & Wood offers customisation of the marble top colour, the wood veneer tone, the brass hardware finish, and overall dimensions. Lead time for customised orders is typically 30–45 days. Contact our team for a personalised quote.