A 18th Century Style Brazilian Arcaz

Antiquário Marcelo Aguila, São Paolo
Private collection, Mexico City, (acquired from the above by the present owner, 2004)

As stated in the catalogue, the silver handles are later additions. The faces of all the drawers are warped and, as a result, do not fit properly with carcass. There are dents, losses and scratches mostly to the molded apron border. There are extensive vertical age cracks showing to the drawer face and side doors consistent with wood shrinkage. The left hand side canted corner is warped, now showing about half an inch space between the top and the canted pilaster. Overall, in good presentation and fair condition with usual dents, marks and scratches consistent with age and use.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The Portuguese colonies were mostly trading centers until Pedro Álvarez Cabral landed on the coast of Brazil in 1500 – forcing Portugal to establish a land-based settlement that would support its colonial expansion.  This vast new land was explored and populated much in the same way as the Spanish conquered, explored, and settled neighboring Spanish colonies throughout Latin America.  By the end of the 17^th century mineral deposits had been found in the mountains of what would later be named Minas Gerais north of Rio de Janeiro. The gold rush that ensued led to a prosperous 18^th century in Brazil.

Brazil's wealth was reflected in the construction of beautiful Baroque churches which were sumptuously decorated with gilt wood carvings and polychrome sculptures.  These were mostly produced in either the northeast (Bahia and Pernambuco) or the central region (Minas Gerais and Rio de Janeiro) of the country which were not only the political and economic centers of the time, but where the beautiful Brazilian rosewood was found.

The commode offered here is a prime example of a late 18^th century piece of furniture that was likely made for a church vestry or altar.