19th Century French Carved Oak Commode

 Description

A breathtaking 19th-century French oak commode, richly carved and full of old-world charm. This piece is adorned with deeply sculpted floral and foliate motifs across all four drawers, giving it a regal presence and an unmistakably French silhouette. The warm, chestnut-toned oak has developed a stunning patina over the centuries, with natural movement in the wood that tells the story of its age and authenticity.

Resting on cabriole-style front feet and straight back legs, this commode blends elegance with functionality. Its drawer capacity makes it perfect for bedrooms, entryways, dining rooms, or anywhere that needs both storage and soul. 

This is a true heirloom piece — the kind of antique that elevates any room with its history, craftsmanship, and undeniable beauty.

Dimensions: 43.5” L x 20.5” D x 40” H

 

Origin & Era

France, late 19th century 

 

Materials 

• Solid French oak
• Original brass drawer pulls
• Hand-carved drawer fronts and apron
• Wooden drawer glides typical of the period

 

Condition Notes

This antique commode is full of character and history, showing the kind of authentic wear consistent with its age:

• Wood Movement: The oak panels show natural movement, separations, and light warping in places — a hallmark of genuine 19th-century construction. None of this affects structural integrity.
• Surface Wear: Light scuffing, finish variation, and areas of softened carving from generations of use.
• Drawer Notes: Drawers glide as expected for an antique — slightly uneven but fully functional. Interior wood shows age, patina, and some small expected worm holes (inactive and common in antique French oak).
• Back Panel: The back shows heavy age, oxidation, and wear, consistent with an untouched antique.
• Feet: Minor wear to the front feet, including scuffing and age-appropriate rounding.

Overall, this piece is structurally sound, sturdy, and beautifully preserved. Its patina and imperfections are exactly what make it exceptional — a piece with true 1800s soul.

 

Styling Suggestions

• Anchor an entryway beneath a large gilded mirror or tapestry
• Style in a dining room for storing linens, flatware, or candles
• Perfect as a bedroom dresser with a mix of antique pottery and stacked books on top
• Pair with a French armchair or marble lamp for an elegant, layered vignette
• Use as a statement storage piece in a living room

 

Why We Love It

Few pieces carry the presence of a carved antique commode like this one. The detailing is extraordinary, the patina is rich and authentic, and the scale is incredibly versatile. It’s the kind of piece that instantly transforms a space — warm, storied, and deeply French.

 

Shipping:

Group A: $200

IA, MO, IL, IN, OH, KY

Group B: $395

WY, CO, KS, NE, NM, OK, AR, MT, LA, MS, AL, TN, GA, SC, NC, VA, WV, PA, DC, MD, DE, NJ, MI, MN

Group C: $595

WA, ID, NV, UT, AZ, ND, SD, TX, NY, CT, RI, MA, NH, VT, ME, CA, San Antonio, Houston, Florida (south of Panhandle / Jacksonville)