Commode (Secrétaire à abattant) 1783

Jean Henri Riesener created this Commode, or Secrétaire à abattant, from wood, marble, and gilt bronze sometime in the late 18th century. The commode embodies the Rococo style, popular among the French aristocracy. It evokes an era of opulence and elaborate ornamentation. The commode presents a striking contrast between the black lacquer and the gilded bronze mounts. Scenes of Asian landscapes adorn the panels. This was a deliberate artistic choice, reflecting the contemporary European fascination with the exoticism of the East. Pieces like this were status symbols that communicated the wealth and taste of the owner. France, at the time, was under the reign of Louis XVI, and its aristocracy enjoyed immense privilege. However, beneath the surface of courtly life, revolutionary sentiments were brewing among the common people. Analyzing the commode’s design and materials, we can begin to understand the social, economic, and political conditions that shaped its creation. Auction catalogs, inventories, and historical records can shed light on the lives of both the artist and the commode's intended audience, revealing the complex interplay between art and society.