Jacques-Philippe Carel (1688-1755) Paris, circa 1740-1750 (1 - Lot 25

Jacques-Philippe Carel (1688-1755) Paris, circa 1740-1750 (18th century) - Louis XV crossbow chest of drawers Inlaid wood chest of drawers opening with three rows of drawers on a curved "crossbow" front. Decorated with butterfly-wing marquetry in geometric frames. Gilded bronze trim including rocaille drawer handles, key escutcheons, corner falls and sabots. Lower crosspiece adorned with a bronze lamp head decorated with shells and foliage. Moulded red veined marble top with spout following the movement of the frame. Stamped CAREL under the belt. Dimensions: height 80 cm (with marble); length 119 cm; depth 46.5 cm (with marble). No key. Professionally restored. Jacques-Philippe Carel (1688-1755) was an 18th-century Parisian cabinetmaker, awarded the title of Master in 1723. Active during the reign of Louis XV, he is renowned for his chests of drawers, desks and storage units, richly veneered in precious woods such as violet and rosewood, and often embellished with gilded bronzes. His work is part of the evolution from Régence to Rocaille style, characteristic of the mid-18th century. Carel worked for a prestigious French and foreign clientele, and also delivered furniture to the Garde-Meuble de la Couronne, notably through the King's cabinetmaker. Today, his work can be found in a number of collections and museums, including the Louvre and the Château de Versailles, and furniture bearing his stamp is one of the most sought-after products of 18th-century Parisian cabinetmaking.