Massive linen cupboards were modelled on northern German examples. These were made with heavy cornice mouldings and bun feet for some time, but gradually bracket feet - as shown in the engravings of Chippendale and others - replaced the bun feet and the cornices became lighter and less pronounced.
Chests of drawers were influenced by the commode - a typical version had four drawers on slightly curved legs terminating in animal feet. The facade was often blocked, making it similar to pieces from the Low Countries. A new form of handmade furniture, the glazed cabinet, mounted on a frame with slender turned legs, was popular for displaying collections of Chinese porcelain.
The cabinet-on-chest was an important piece in Scandinavia during this time. Massive in size, it incorporated a chest of drawers in the lower section with either one or two doors above. These doors opened to reveal various small pigeonholes or shelves. These non fitted furniture pediment was architectural in design, the later versions had pierced, carved, and gilt decorative features. The guilds that existed in Stockholm until the late 18th century required a master cabinet-maker to make a cabinet-on-chest before he could be admitted, thus perpetuating the form.
Tables ranged from carved pine and gilded pier and console tables with marble tops, to dressing tables with three drawers below a top on cabriole legs.
High-style pier and console tables followed elaborate French fashions and were heavily carved and gilded with expensive marble tops. Dressing tables tended to be based on English examples and some were decorated with japanning. The fashion for tea tables, card tables, and small portable tables also followed English and French trends.
Dutch Bureau
An 18th century Dutch marquetry bureau of bombe form with fall front and fitted interior over three graduated long drawers on splayed and moulded feet. Now antique furniture.
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