A gilt-bronze mounted mahogany commode à vantaux, stamped F. Bury and J.B.Tuart Louis XVI, late 18th century

the white marble top with canted corners, above three short drawers and a pair of hinged cupboard doors simulating two long drawers, opening to reveal two long mahogany drawers, on circular tapering toupie feet, the whole with panelled decoration and gilt-bronze mounts throughout

The marble top has been restored and is later. The piece has been strengethened internally with blocks.The handles are missing their rings. Some restorations to veneer, eg across the front there have been some horizontal strips inserted. Attractive model. In overall very good restored 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."

Jean-Baptiste Tuart worked with his father in the abbey of Saint-Germain-l'Auxerrois and subsequently established himself as a marchand-mercier in the fashionable Rue Saint-Honoré.  By 1775 he was considered to be one of the most important marchands in Paris.  His stamp is often found, as it is in the present commode,  beside the stamp of the ébéniste who he commissioned to make the piece.

Ferdinand Bury was received master in 1774.  He was involved in the production of a number of important pieces and his gilt-bronze mounts were often supplied by the bronzier Antoine-André Ravrio.