A PAIR OF LOUIS XVI STYLE GILT-BRONZE MOUNTED CREAM AND GREEN DECORATED COMMODES IN THE MANNER OF JACQUES DUBOIS PARIS, CIRCA 1880

both surmounted by a verde de campagne molded marble top with canted corners above a single frieze drawer with entwined laurel and berry cast gilt-bronze mounts and fitted with two cupboard drawers with three shelves, decorated to the front and side with mythological scenes of putti and dieties, raised on tapering square feet, one mount has been removed to reveal the letter F in cursive from the bronze master mounts, one carcass numbered 104, the other 105, both marbles with the stencilled number 18 to the underside.

Overall in good condition with the usual minor scratches, dents and nicks consistent with age and use. Slight tarnishing to gilt-bronze in places. The marble tops with the usual minor chips to the edges. The interiors redecorated with green turquoise paint. One back foot on each most probably replaced and now missing the sabots and gilt-bronze decoration along that side.
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 en grisaille technique is a method of painting executed entirely in monochrome, using various shades of olive, grey, or buff tints, to represent objects in relief. It is rare to see this type of decoration interpreted by the 19th century admirers of important 18th century furniture. The designs were sometimes painted on friezes and medallions on 18th and 19th century furniture and paneling, to give an illusion of depth and carving.  A related commode en demi-lune attributed to Dubois is in the collection of Alice Charlotte von Rothschild in the sitting room at Waddesdon Manor (see: Waddesdon Manor, The Heritage Of A Rothschild House, Buckinghamshire, 2002, p. 189).

A secretaire by Beurdeley, also in the manner of Dubois, was sold in these rooms in A Private Collection volume II, April 19, 2007, lot 46 for $60,000.