Rococo commodes from Altona

Furniture of this design is generally associated with the German town of Altona, famous for its furniture production in 18th century northern Europe. The work of the town’s cabinetmakers was characterised by its gilded openwork carving and its degree of perfection, which involved using just the right piece of walnut veneer with just the right vivid patterns in the wood grain – characteristics found in both of the commodes up for auction.  

A symbol of status and wealth

The commodes are thought to come from the workshop of cabinetmaker Johann Friedrich Köster (1747-1812). They were made during the period of transition between Rococo and Neoclassicism, which is clearly reflected by the fact that they bear stylistic elements of both periods, known as “transitional”. In the 18th century, this type of furniture was commissioned by the north German and Danish aristocracy for the decoration and furnishing of castles and manor houses in Schleswig-Holstein, Copenhagen, Potsdam and Dresden, and was very much a symbol of status and wealth.

Examples of cabinetry similar to the two commodes up for auction are illustrated in Annette-Isabell Kratz’s book entitled “Altonaer Möbel des Rokoko und Klassizismus”, Hamburg, 1988.

Please note: The final cut-off for consignment to the international auction in November is 18 October.