Commode ca. 1745-50 Jean Desforges The stamp D.F. is found on a number of related mid-eighteenth century commodes either decorated with Asian lacquer or with European imitation lacquer. It is believed that the cabinetmaker Jean Deforge, member of a family of Parisian ébénistes by that name, was responsible for this group and for this particular commode veneered with red Chinese lacquer as well. Jean Deforge was connected with a circle of important craftsmen in Paris: he was related through his marriage with Françoise Pottier (or Pothier) to the cabinetmaker and furniture dealer Albert Pottier, while his younger sister married Guillaume Martin, one of the Martin brothers famous for their imitation lacquer usually called vernis Martin. The two drawers of this commode are sans traverse (meaning without a shelf between them). Although gilt bronze beautifully frames the panels of red lacquer on the front and sides, protects the corners and feet, there are no handles on the drawer fronts whi