A gilt-bronze and amethyst plaque possibly by Lucien-François Feuchère Empire, circa 1820

of rectangular form with a moulded border and a central medaillion

In good condition, the bronze with minor surface dirt and rubbing, with other minor surface marks.
"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."

Lucien-François Feuchère (1784-1822):
The bronzier Lucien-François Feuchère was known to have worked with his father Pierre-François before the Revolution. His workshops in the rue Notre-Dame-de-Nazareth had more than 150 artisans and provided many pieces for the Garde-Meuble Impérial. He received a silver medal at the Exposition de l'Industrie in 1819 for his bronze works. He retired in 1824 and left his workshop to his son Armand and his son-in-law Fossey.

The combination of such a large section of veneered amethyst  and gilt-bronze is rarely encountered and would seem to indicate that it was possibly a special commission by this leading Parian bronzier in the early years of the 19th century. Amethyst is a violet variety of quartz and teh name derives from the Ancient Greek meaning `not intoxicated' and the belief was that the stone protected its owner from intoxication. The Ancient Greeks and Romans wore amethyst and made drinking vessels from it.