This stunning dresser is an 18th century commode. According to Dixon Lane Antiques, (who is selling this stunning piece) the commode was painted in the early 20th century. They do not know the origins of this dresser, but they do know that the dresser is dated approximately around 1800. The commode does have some restorations done as most dressers do at this age. The commode has neoclassical hardware, and is painted beautifully. Obviously it has a naturally aged patina, and the charm of wear and tear. If you were to attempt to paint a similar design, be sure to add a touch of brown glaze to your dresser after it is painted white to simulate the aged look of this dresser. Be sure to add extra glaze and less brown paint, as you do not want it looking dirty. If you wanted to add the floral details, you can attempt this several ways. First, if you are good at free hand painting, this would be the ideal way of painting a dresser that would have the finish of Dixon Lanes 18th century commode. If you are not good at free had, consider hiring an artist to come in and finish the details. There are plenty of artists at local colleges who are willing to be paid a fair amount for their time and talent for some pictures to put into their portfolio. The second way you can add details, without having much artistic talent is to rent an overhead projector, and trace the pattern you wish to transfer. Then, it would be a matter of filling in the design with water or oil based paints. Third, you can rent art books from your local library, pick out the design you wish to feature on your dresser, and color photocopy the designs and later cut and paste them on to your dresser. If you do decide to go this route, be sure to use a glue stick not liquid glue and also seal the dresser with water based sealant such as Minwax's water based polycrylic, not polyurethane.
