- 123
A Louis XV painted and parcel-gilt lit à la turque by Jean-Baptiste Tilliard, circa 1760
Description
- pine
- 88cm. high, 180cm. wide, 68cm. deep; 2ft. 10¾in., 5ft. 11in., 2ft. 2¾in.
Condition
"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
Jean-Baptiste I Tilliard (1686-1766, maître 1717) and his son Jean-Baptiste II (1723-1797, maître 1752) are widely considered two of the most talented menuisiers of the 18th century, the father active for the Garde-Meuble de la Couronne during the 1730s, and delivering in 1737-1739 seat furniture for the King and Queen at Versailles, thus contributing to the emergence of a mature rocaille. The Tilliards’ other patrons included the Marquise de Soubise, the Marquise de Pompadour, and several marchands-merciers, with Jean-Baptiste II becoming a favourite of Madame Victoire and Madame Elisabeth. Upon his retirement in 1764 his son, Jacques Jean-Baptiste took over the atelier, maintaining his father’s stamp, until the Revolution.
In its Louis XV expression, the Tilliards' oeuvre is distinguished by the high quality of the construction and a carving that is never too flamboyant. Signature elements include the motif of a heart inscribed in a cartouche. Notable pieces are housed in museum throughout the world, and include an ottomane veilleuse at the Metropolitan Museum, New York (1982.60.72) and another day bed at the Victoria & Albert Museum, London (W.5:1,2-1956). One lit à la turque attributed to Tilliard is now in the Getty Museum (86.DA.535).