A gilt-bronze-mounted mahogany commode Empire, first quarter 19th century

with a rectangular fossilised black Belgian marble top, above a frieze drawer centred by the mask of Mercury, above three recessed long drawers with escutcheons in the form of vine leaf and grape filled cornucopiae, the handles cast with addorsed swans and a floral fan motif, flanked by double baluster columns with gilt-bronze cast headers and bases, surmounted by neo-classical female figures, on projecting demi-lune shaped block feet

Colour of mahogany slightly darker and gilding more golden and attractive than in the catalogue photograph. Very nice detail to casting of mounts. There are some very minor chips to the marble top. Very minor tarnishing to gilt-bronze mounts. The lock-plate inside the second drawer down needs re-pinning. There is a vertical hairline construction crack to the right and left sides with the one on the right showing evidence of previous restoration with another smaller vertical hairline split down both sides, but these can be left, as do not detract from piece. There is a two inch partial section of moulding chipped towards the rear left corner which can easily be restored. Very minor chips to veneer generally which is hardly noticeable. Very attractive flaming to the mahogany. In overall good 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."

Comparative Literature:
Anne Forray-Carlier, Le Mobilier du Musée Carnavalet, Dijon, 2000, pp 246-247, no. 92,  (inv. MB 733), illustrates a related commode, with identical escutcheon mounts and stylised fan motifs at the back of the handles and with double baluster columns flanking the drawers, which is stated to have been acquired by the Duke and Duchess de Gaëte after their marriage in 1822. The illustrated commode and the offered piece although not stamped are reminiscent of the production of four ébénistes of renown whose work was of the same superb quality, namely François-Honoré-Georges Jacob known as Jacob Desmalter, Pierre Benôit Marcion, Pierre-Antoine Bellangé and Louis-Edouard Lemarchand.