Commode
The term 'commode' is borrowed from France when it was first used, in 1708, to refer to chest of drawers. They became very fashionable items in early 18th century and are distinctive by their serpentine shape. It was not until the 1740's that the term was adopted in England when French fashions became popular and consequently serpentine-shaped commodes, like the pair here, of the mid-18th century and exhibiting rococo characteristics became known as 'French Commodes'. Chippendale frequently referred to such pieces of French Commodes, as well as 'French Commode Tables'. Several of these are illustrated in the 'Director' and shown here. The term commode, as we know it today, did not come into use until the Victorian period and it probably originated in America.
c.1770
The Earl & Countess of Harewood, & the Trustees of the Harewood House Trust
These mahogany commodes were made for Daniel Lascelles' home (Edward Lascelles' brother) at Goldsborough Hall where the furniture was generally simpler in taste and design than that made for Harewood House. Unlike the furniture made for Harewood these pieces are very much in the old fashioned Rococo style. There is very little decoration except for the carved detail on the corners and the scrolled feet on plinths, which are both distinctive features of this earlier style. Although there is very little decoration, the grain and quality of the wood as well as the beautiful serpentine shape are enough to create two handsome pieces of furniture. Only the top and the corner legs are actually made of mahogany. The rest of the piece, the drawers, sides and back, is made of much cheaper and lighter woods and then veneered with a thin layer of mahogany. Apart from the restrictions of cost, using mahogany alone would have created a piece much too heavy for practical use.
Back to Collection Index
For other furniture types
Top of Page
Chippendale at Harewood Home Page
Copyright © 2000, Harewood House Trust Limited
All Rights Reserved
a salvo production