François Linke 1855 - 1946 A gilt-bronze and rouge griotte marble table clock Paris, circa 1895, index number 86

siged F. Linke to the reverse of the fan.

Payne, C., François Linke 1855-1946: The Belle Epoque of French Furniture, 2003, models illustrated pp. 160, 182, 247 and the black and white cliché on p. 487.

 

Overall in very good condition and presentation; with its original gilding; slight tarnishing to gilt-bronze mounts; one hand to dial detached but present; minor craquelure and overpainting to the enamel dial.
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.

Considering the two digit number in Linke registre the present table clock is an early model in the master large registre said to be as high as 2500 creations. Interrestingly index number 89 molded with a masque de bal can be found on a double bed sold in these rooms, a private Collection, Vol I, October 26, 2006, lot 41. Christopher Payne comments on this decorative originality as follow: "Although a familiar device in the fine arts, it is comparatively rare to find a masque de bal on furniture, and very rare in a gilt-bronze sculpture, such as on the footboard of this bed. A possible inspiration for the incorporation of a mask in this innovative design by Léon Messagé is the chandelier by the sculptor Emmanuel Frémiet, which sold at Sotheby's, Paris, November 9, 2005, lot 148."