attributed to françois linke A pair of carved giltwood and brèche violette porte potiche Paris, circa 1908-1927, index number 1836

C. Payne, François Linke, p. 432, for the color illustration of the present lot; and p. 505, for the black and white cliché

The giltwood with numerous chips, losses and flaking to the gilding showing the gesso and with areas of dirt; slight separation at lines of construction to the giltwood frame; two swags slightly loose; each marble top with infilled repaired breaks;
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.

Linke title: porte potiche delafosse modelle des arts decoratifs, bois sculpté et doré

This celebrated model is one of five examples made by Linke, the first in 1908 for Elias Meyer of Grosvenor Square, the last in 1927. The cost of making each example rose from 349 francs in 1908 to 2,205 in 1927. The initial retail price was suggested at 600 francs, which was the price Linke repurchased the Meyer example from his widow in 1926.

Footenote courtesy of Christopher Payne

An identical porte potiche attributed to Linke sold in these rooms, April 19, 2007, lot 85, which sold for $7000