Maison Girard A fine carved and parcel gilt mahogany and boxwood vitrine Paris, circa 1880

fitted with a bevelled glass door above a finely carved walnut relief of a bacchanal scene opening to four shelves and beige silk fabric, flanked by six small pivoting drawers, the back with an oval branded stamp GIRARD / F. PECHEUX S^{R. / 61 AVENUE DE WAGRAM.}

Overall in very good condition. All details finely carved. Minor chips and scratches consistent with age. Dirt and tarnishing to parcel gilding. Molding loss above each column flanking the cabinet. Each column has traces of glue from old restorations. The right column has two chips to the top turned element. Loss to one knob.
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 bill of sale (fig. 1) to a Mr. Labour dating from September 23, 1896 records a sold price of 2000 french francs and mentions that the vitrine was exhibited at an exhibition in 1889. Girard was not recorded as exhibiting at the Exposition Universelle in Paris that year but this might imply a Parisian Salon ealier that year. Interestingly, the bill of sale proudly states that the relief was carved of one block of boxwood.