A black and gold Chinese lacquer commode stamped twice L. Boudin and C. Thibault Louis XV, mid 18th century

with a Spanish portor marble top, above two drawers, the mounts regilt

Old minor marks and chips to the marble top and pitting and some minor areas of infill, with a couple of larger chips towards the rear edge which can easily be filled. The lacquer is in generally good order with some minor chips and craqueleur as visible from photograph. The gilt-bronze mounts are probably later. Some minor retouching to the lacquer. There is a vertical crack in the panel on the left side and another vertical crack on the same side where there has been shrinkage of the panel, which will need some attention. There has been some retouching to the ebonising. There are also vertical and horizontal cracks in the right side panel where there has been shrinkage, but these can easily be filled and retouched . The gilded border is also rubbed and chipped in places, but can easily be retouched. There are some minor restorations to the carcass, internally and at the back. In need of some attention to the cracks but a most impressive piece with charming detail to the lacquer. Highly recommended.
"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:
Pierre Kjellberg, Le Mobilier Français du XVIIIe siècle, Paris, 1998, p. 94, fig. b, for a black lacquer commode by Boudin.  

Related Chinese black lacquer commodes stamped by the same maker sold at auction include:
-lot 96, sold in these Rooms, 1st July 1977
-lot 118, sold in these Rooms, 5th July 1985
-lot 335, sold in these Rooms, 3rd March 2006, A Private European Residence, French and neo-classical furniture (£48,000)

Léonard Boudin (1735-1807), received Master 1761.

C Thibault was known to have made marquetry pieces for the appartments of Marie Leczinska at Versailles.