A pair of French gilt-bronze mounted marquetry commodes after the model by Jean-Henri Riesener late 19th century

There are differences in construction and the marquetry and parquetry panels and these are a matched pair. Old minor marks and chips and very minor restorations to chips to the purple and white marble tops. The mounts have all been regilded. The darker coloured commode: There are two hairline vertical cracks in the marquetry panel of one which can easily be filled and some very minor losses to the veneer at the base of the drawer of the same one and some very minor bubbling and restorations to the veenr and other very minor losses which can easily be restored. ther is a very small section of leaf mising at the base of the apron on the right which is hardly noticeable. Other commode: slightly lighter in colour overall and also the veneer on the left side of the front panel and base of left door looks a slightly different colour to the rest and may be possibly be reveneered. The carcass has been varnished. In overall good conserved conditon.
"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."

This commode is based on the celebrated model made by Riesener (1734-1806) in 1775 for Louis XVI's bedroom at Versailles and now in the Musée Condé, Chantilly. The central marquetry panel formerly bore a royal monogram but it was altered by Riesener after the revolution. The embossed gilt-bronze mounts were executed by Louis-Barthélemy Hervieux one of the best fondeurs-ciseleurs of the day.
For similar 19th century versions of this commode, see Sotheby's, New York, 27th April 2006, lot 252 (sold for $108,000); 20th April 2007, lot 313; 24th October 2007, lot 472.