Commode Furniture in English: Stylish and Practical Pieces for Your Home

Commode furniture is a stylish and functional addition to any home. With its unique design and practicality, it has been a popular piece of furniture for centuries. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of elegance to your bedroom or a statement piece to your living room, commode furniture is a versatile option that can suit any style.

Historically, commodes were first used in France in the late 17th century. They were designed to resemble the English chest of drawers but with added functionality. Most commodes had marble tops, and some were fitted with pairs of doors. André-Charles Boulle was among the first to make commodes. These early forms resembled sarcophagi and were commonly used in bedrooms.

Today, commode furniture has evolved to suit modern tastes and styles. They can be found in a variety of materials, from traditional wood designs to more contemporary metal and glass designs. In addition to being a decorative piece of furniture, commodes can also provide additional storage space for your belongings. With its unique design and practicality, commode furniture is a must-have for any home.

Key Takeaways

• Commode furniture is a versatile and practical addition to any home, offering both style and functionality.
• Commodes were first used in France in the late 17th century and have since evolved to suit modern tastes and styles.
• In addition to being a decorative piece of furniture, commodes can also provide additional storage space for your belongings.

Historical Evolution of Commodes

Commodes have a rich history that dates back to the 17th century in France. Over time, the commode has undergone significant changes in style and design, influenced by various factors such as the reigns of Louis XV and Louis XVI, the Rococo period, and the work of notable furniture makers such as André-Charles Boulle and Thomas Chippendale.

Origins in France

The commode originated in France in the late 17th century as a type of furniture resembling the English chest of drawers. Most commodes had marble tops, and some were fitted with pairs of doors. These early forms resembled sarcophagi and were commonly used as a decorative piece in the home. André-Charles Boulle was among the first to make commodes, and his work set the standard for the style and design of the commode.

Development of Styles

During the Rococo period, commodes evolved into a more ornate style, characterized by elaborate ornamentation, asymmetrical designs, and emphasis on curves and natural motifs. The reigns of Louis XV and Louis XVI also had a significant influence on the development of commode styles. Louis XV favored the Rococo style, while Louis XVI preferred a more neoclassical style, characterized by straight lines, symmetry, and classical motifs.

Global Influence

The popularity of the commode spread beyond France, with notable examples found in America and London. In America, commodes were often made in the Rococo style, while in London, commodes were referred to as chests of drawers with gracefully curved fronts, and sometimes with shaped sides as well, perceived as being in the “French” taste.

Antique commodes are highly sought after by collectors, with marquetry and ormolu being common features. The Victorian era also saw a resurgence in the popularity of the commode, with furniture makers creating elaborate designs that incorporated elements of both the Rococo and neoclassical styles.

Overall, the commode has had a significant impact on the world of furniture design, with its evolution reflecting the changing tastes and styles of different eras and cultures.

Design and Functionality

A commode is a functional piece of furniture that can be used in a variety of ways. They come in different shapes, sizes, and styles, making them a fashionable addition to any room. In this section, we will explore the materials and craftsmanship used in creating commodes, as well as their anatomy and modern adaptations.

Materials and Craftsmanship

Most commodes are made of high-quality materials such as walnut, fruitwoods, solid painted oak, and veneers. The use of these materials ensures that the commode is durable and long-lasting. The craftsmanship involved in creating a commode is also essential to ensure its quality, authenticity, and functionality.

The intricate design of a commode involves the use of gilded bronze, tapering, cabriole legs, rococo curves, and serpentine fronts. The commode may also feature a marble top or slab, adding to its elegance and decorative appeal. The use of reeded and flamboyant designs is also common in French provincial furniture.

Anatomy of a Commode

A commode typically consists of a set of drawers or a cupboard with doors. The top surface of the commode can be used to display decorative objects or as a functional surface. Some commodes also feature a chamber pot, which was a common feature in the past, but is now mostly obsolete.

The legs of a commode can vary in style, with cabriole legs being a popular choice. Some commodes may also feature wheels for ease of movement. The drawers and shelves of a commode provide ample storage space, making it a practical addition to any room.

Modern Adaptations

Contemporary commodes have adapted to modern tastes and needs. Low cupboards with doors are a popular choice for use in the living room or bedroom. Night tables with a set of drawers are also a common feature in modern commode designs.

The functionality of a commode has also been adapted to meet modern needs. Some commodes feature a convex shape, providing more storage space without taking up too much floor space. Hospital commodes have also been designed to provide comfort and convenience to patients.

In conclusion, commode furniture is a stylish and practical addition to any home. The materials and craftsmanship involved in creating a commode ensure its quality and authenticity. The anatomy of a commode consists of drawers, cabinets, shelves, legs, doors, and a top surface. Modern adaptations have made commodes more functional and convenient for contemporary living.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the different types of commode furniture available?

There are several types of commode furniture available, including bedside commodes, commode chairs, and commode chests. Bedside commodes are designed to be used as a portable toilet and are often used by individuals who have difficulty getting to the bathroom. Commode chairs are similar to bedside commodes, but they are designed to be used as a chair when not being used as a toilet. Commode chests, on the other hand, are pieces of furniture that have a hidden toilet compartment.

How do you care for antique commode furniture?

Antique commode furniture should be cared for carefully to preserve its value and beauty. It is important to keep the furniture away from direct sunlight and moisture, as both can cause damage over time. It is also important to clean the furniture regularly with a soft, dry cloth to prevent dust and dirt from accumulating.

What are the functions of a commode chair?

A commode chair is a versatile piece of furniture that can serve multiple functions. It can be used as a portable toilet for individuals who have difficulty getting to the bathroom, as a shower chair for individuals who have difficulty standing in the shower, or as a regular chair when not being used as a toilet or shower chair.

Could you explain the historical significance of commode furniture?

Commode furniture has a rich history dating back to 17th century France. The word “commode” comes from the French word for “convenient” or “suitable,” and the furniture was originally designed to be a convenient alternative to the chamber pot. Over time, commode furniture evolved to become a stylish and practical addition to any home.

What are some common materials used in the construction of commode furniture?

Commode furniture can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and plastic. Wood is the most common material used in the construction of commode furniture, with oak, mahogany, and walnut being popular choices. Metal and plastic commodes are also available, but they are less common.

Are there any modern adaptations of traditional commode furniture?

Yes, there are modern adaptations of traditional commode furniture. For example, there are commode chairs that are designed to look like regular chairs, with a hidden toilet compartment. There are also bedside commodes that are designed to look like regular nightstands, with a hidden toilet compartment. These adaptations make commode furniture more discreet and stylish, while still providing the same practical benefits.