Sensual Curves: A Venetian Chest

Venetian Chest $3695

Located just inside the door at at 96 Charles St., this charming commode dates back to the early 20th Century but draws on styles from 150 to 200 years prior.

While its the hand-painted floral designs that initially catch your eye, it’s the chest’s shape that sets it apart.

“It’s got great form and color,” said Regency’s Betsy Leve. “The curves are sensual and the build is sturdy – in Italy it was probably used in the living room, but it could also work in the bedroom.”

The full description is a turn of the century Venetian Bombe (‘Bombay’) Chest. The golden top is faux-marble, the handles are bronze and the fanned ‘paw’ foot (along with the shape) portrays a distinctively Rococo influence.

While the Rococo interior design style pre-dates this chest, it’s worth noting that Venice was considered (by most accounts) the leading Italian source for unusual furniture in the 1700’s. This piece draws on the extravagance and overall richness pervading the Rococo period, but does so in a delightfully understated manner.