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This commode was originally purchased by the Bourn family for the Drawing Room (see photo) from Basil Dighton, an antiques dealer infamous for being sued over fake furniture. The inlaid floral designs are reminiscent of French artistry of the Rococo period, but the piece may actually be a reproduction made in the early 1900s.Label
This commode was originally purchased by the Bourn family for the Drawing Room (see photo). It is a Rococo-style commode made of pine, cedar, and rosewood, with inlaid floral marquetry and gilt-bronze mounts on splayed legs. The top and sides are inlaid with floral wreaths, while the front is inlaid with floral bouquets in vases raised on mounts. At the corners sit gilt-bronze acanthus leaves which grow in the Garden.
As this commode was purchased from Basil Dighton, it may be a fake made in the early 1900s, rather than the late 1700s. Basil was infamous for being sued for overcharging for fake furniture, and although he won the lawsuit, his reputation was mostly ruined. Agnes was gifted a set of books about furniture by her daughter, Maud, containing a teasing letter implying the Bourn couple had been overcharged or defrauded.
“We hope this will help you from being ‘stung’ - Anyway, deepest love and a Merry Christmas from the ‘wise guys’”
- Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Vincent
