Lot 71
  • 71

Jules Leleu (1883 - 1961)

Estimate
8,000 - 12,000 GBP
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Description

  • A 'Fireworks' commode
  • interior with inset ivory label with indistinct signature

  • 94cm. high by 189.5cm. long by 45cm. deep;
  • 3ft 2in., 6ft 2¾in., 1ft 5¾in.
the marquetry by Messager, rosewood, ebony and mother-of-pearl marquetry, of bowfront form, the stepped top above twin hinged doors with elaborate floral inlay enclosing a blondewood interior, flanked by facetted columnar supports above tapered legs with sabots

Literature

Viviane Jutheau, Jules et André Leleu, Neuchâtel, 1996, p. 87 (closely related example illustrated)
Leleu: 50 ans de mobilier et de décoration 1920-1970, exhibition catalogue, Roubaix and Boulogne-Billancourt, 2007-2008, p. 113 (identical example illustrated)
Françoise Siriex, The House of Leleu, Classic French Style for a Modern World 1920-1973, Manchester and New York, 2008, p. 216 (another example illustrated)

Condition

A stylish and high quality piece of good overall appearance. One or two small areas of restoration to veneer, to a good standard. Minor old marks and scratches, consistent with age and use. With two keys, both doors enclosing a shelf. Patina to front slightly blemished in places, as can partially been seen in the catalogue illustration but this is not obvious or detrimental. Ready for display.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Catalogue Note

The exhibition catalogue cited above shows a 'Feu d'artifice' commode in a contemporary room setting. The 1938 black and white photograph is from the Leleu archives.  The piece shown in the exhibition is in the collection Mobilier national, Paris, inv. GME 17238.