18th-century-italian-painted-commode-chest-of-drawers/

18th-Century Italian Painted Commode Chest of Drawers

painted chest of drawers

🖋 Provenance Story – 18th-Century Italian Painted Commode

Some pieces just stop you mid-step. This one — an 18th-century Italian commode — did exactly that, in a weathered barn outside Lucca, its faded florals glowing beneath a patch of Tuscan light like an oil painting you weren’t supposed to find.

I was on a buying trip tracing a trail of regional antique fairs, mostly to source late-century design, but the family estate sale caught my eye. A farmhouse emptied room by room. Decades of dust, and in the centre, this. Curved like a whisper, painted like a promise. The floral motifs? Original, hand-applied. The oak-lined drawers? Still gliding. And the patina — the kind of surface collectors dream about — all age-softened lacquer and worn gilt that tells you this piece has lived a life.

We know it came from a palazzo near Florence originally, passed down through generations of a noble family whose name you’d recognise from the footnotes of art history books. But the magic is that it doesn’t feel precious. It feels lived-in. Like a relic of beauty built to be used — and admired — for centuries.

Now, it’s been cleaned and carefully conserved, not restored. The paint remains lightly chipped where time intended, the structure solid as ever. It's honest. And that’s its charm — a piece that transcends trend.

Set it in a modern interior, and it doesn’t shout. It glows. That’s the power of a real piece of Italian craftsmanship — it holds its own with quiet confidence. Whether you’re styling a curated gallery wall or grounding a contemporary space with old-world depth, this commode speaks the visual language of legacy.

This isn’t furniture. It’s cultural memory, dressed in Rococo elegance.

This 18th-century Italian painted commode chest of drawers is a perfect blend of Rococo-style elegance and rustic charm. It showcases exceptional Italian craftsmanship while providing practical storage for contemporary interiors.

Here’s what makes this piece truly exceptional:

• A gracefully curved front and three spacious, oak-lined drawers offer both style and functionality.
• Intricate floral motifs and scrollwork are hand-painted to enhance its artistic appeal.
• Ornate brass handles and corner flourishes further elevate its sophisticated design.
• A distressed antique patina adds character and celebrates its rich history.

Additionally, the beautifully aged top surface tells a story of its own, making this piece a standout addition to any home. Whether decorating a classic interior or a more modern space, this vintage Italian furniture transitions seamlessly between styles.

Furthermore, its durability and craftsmanship ensure that this painted chest of drawers will remain a cherished piece for generations. With its timeless charm and practical functionality, it serves as both a decorative and functional centrepiece.

Please keep in mind that this is a large and heavy commode, reflecting its sturdy construction and historical authenticity. Therefore, it’s not just a piece of furniture but a work of art that speaks to a bygone era of elegance and craftsmanship.

Don’t miss the opportunity to own this remarkable 18th-century Italian commode. It’s more than furniture—it’s a legacy.

Measurements

Height 101 cm

Width 63cm

Length 147 cm

Date of Manufacture circa 1770

Condition

Good Antique condition, some chips in to paint some inlays are missing.

Materials

Mahogany, Oak, Paint, Brass

Please contact us for high-resolution images, or we can arrange mutually convenient virtual viewing.

Returns and Shipping

21 Days return - Buyer pays for returns. 

UK delivery £65-£85, 7-10 days for delivery. N.Ireland the highlands of Scotland, and islands, please contact for an accurate quote 

Worldwide delivery is available Please contact us for a quote