Sue and Mare Commode

private collection

Louis Sue and André Mare were two of the most important designers of the French Art Deco period. They formed a partnership after the end of World War I as the French economy was returning to normal. They not only designed furniture but lighting, carpets, and wall coverings.

This commode from about 1925 is representative of their flamboyant designs. It references some classical French elements; the highly patterned marble top and the gilded legs. But the marquetry is of special interest with its under-ocean scene featuring stylized turtles and seaweed. The bright colors contrast with the ebony used for the basic cabinetry.