19th Century French Empire Mahogany Commode with Black Marble Top

A substantial 19th-century French Empire commode, crafted from richly figured mahogany and topped with a dramatic black marble slab. The façade is anchored by bold columnar supports with gilt-bronze capitals, a hallmark of Empire design, lending architectural strength and symmetry to the piece.

Three generously scaled drawers offer practical storage, each adorned with original gilt-bronze ring pulls and escutcheons, secured with hand-chiseled silver nails—a fine detail indicative of traditional craftsmanship. The drawers are constructed with hand-cut dovetail joinery and open smoothly; no drawer stops are present, consistent with age and construction. The top drawer locks, the middle lock functions but is slightly stiff, and the bottom drawer does not lock.

The black marble top shows edge chipping and surface wear, commensurate with age, while the mahogany case retains its time-earned character. Condition notes include a slightly crooked frame, scattered surface marks from historic use, chippy veneer along the lower trim, a larger scratch along the left side, and areas of patina from past life. These elements speak to the piece’s authenticity and long life rather than detract from its presence.

Solid, expressive, and full of history, this commode works beautifully in a dining room, bedroom, or entry—offering both visual weight and functional storage.

Details

• Origin: France, 19th century
• Style: French Empire
• Material: Mahogany, black marble top, gilt-bronze mounts
• Dimensions: 51” L × 22” W × 35.75” H
• Construction: Hand-cut dovetail drawers; paneled back
• Condition: Antique condition with visible wear consistent with age. Marble top shows edge chipping. Frame is slightly out of square. Veneer loss along lower trim. One larger scratch on left side. No drawer stops. Top drawer locks; middle lock functions but is stiff; bottom drawer does not lock.

Shipping

Group A — $250

IA, MO, IL, IN, OH, KY

Group B — $430

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

Group C — $650

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