An Italian polychrome lacquered commode, Genoese mid 18th century

with a painted faux marble top

Old very minor marks and chips and scratches commensurate with age and use. There is some minor retouching to the lacquer which is generally in good order. In overall good conserved 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."

Comparative Literature:
Alvar González-Palacios, Il Mobile in Liguria, Genoa, 1996, pp 208-210, for various examples of this type of Genoese lacquered commode.

Lacquered furniture produced in Genoa by contrast with the Venetian examples, was distinctive as the corporation of laccatori used a different type of lacquer to that produced in Venice which was thinner and leaner and was devised specifically not to cover the details of the sculpted elements.

However, Genoa enjoyed an almost equal reputation to Venice in respect of its lacquered furniture which sometimes lacked the fantasy and exaggeration of the Venetian pieces. The vicinity of France and its political influence on the Republic of Genoa throughout the 18^th century had a strong impact and Genoese furniture represents understated elegance with its slender curves and sabre legs and almost imperceptible bombé shape as on the present commode and the use of delicate pastel shades was a feature of Genoese lacquered furniture.