A gilt-bronze-mounted mahogany commode à vantaux attributed to Molitor Empire, early 19th century

This commode of bold neo-classical outline with its beautiful flame mahogany doors flanked by finely cast and chased Egyptian terms enclosing four drawers on paw feet is typical of the oeuvre of Molitor in the first quarter of the 19th century.

Bernard Molitor (1755-1833) received Master 1787. Molitor was of German origin and moved to Paris before 1778 and was one of the last ébénistes to work for the monarchy in France. His business was extremely successful and he counted not only Marie-Antoinette but also other members of the Queen's circle amongst his clientele. His furniture was characterised by the use of mahogany veneers  embellished with finely cast gilt-bronze mounts and his motifs were often inspired by contemporary events such as Napoleon's campaign in Egypt.