A fine gilt-bronze mounted brass inlaid kingwood and parquetry commode Régence, circa 1715

of bowed form with a moulded mottled pink grey and white marble top above two short and two long drawers, the latter panelled to simulate two short drawers within a gilt-bronze foliate cast border, the backplates of the handles cast with grotesque masks and terminating in flowerfilled cornucopia the central escutcheons with a stylised scallopshell with dolphins and a grotesque mask, the stiles with an acanthus spray above a brass fluted shaped apron on scrolled feet centred by a stylised scallopshell, the sides inlaid with a diaper, the whole with brass stringing

Colour more reddish brown than appears in the catalogue illustration and more attractive. The marble top has been restored and some of the brass may well have been restored. Attractive detail to casting of mounts, which appear to be contemporary with the piece, but are slightly dirty and would benefit from a light clean according to taste. There are some minor casting flaws, especially to the gilt-bronze banding and drawers, but these are hardly noticeable. The top leaf cast border of one of the drawers is of a slightly different colour and is almost certainly a later replacement. Some very minor restorations to the veneer. There is a patch to the apron, which has possibly been completely re-veneered. The rear feet are later. An attractive lot, 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."