A pair of Louis XVI carved giltwood bergères circa 1775, stamped J. Audry

Antenor Patiño

The Alexander Collection, sold Christie's New York, 30 April 1999, lot 49 ($145,500)

J. Nicolay, L'Art et la Manière des Ebénistes Français au XVIIIe Siècle, Paris, 1976, p. 38, fig. A.   

With scattered age and construction cracks; not extensive. Some old worm damage; most to underside and not extensive. Scattered losses to gesso. Possibly regilt, gilding now with losses, rubbing and surface dirt. Legs blocked, one with glue residue to back of legs. In good overall 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.
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.

This pair of bergères is en suite with two fauteuils and a canapé by François-Claude Menant, sold from the collection of Thelma Chrysler Foy, Parke Bernet, New York, 22-23 May, 1959, lots 719-721. This might indicate a larger order divided by a marchand-mercier between at least two menuisiers. Menant only became maître in 1786 but his workshop being located in an endroit privilégié (rue de Charenton) could have enabled him to have used his stamp before becoming maître.  A similar bergère (one of a pair) stamped C.-L. Burgat in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, is illustrated B. G. B. Pallot, L'art du siège au XVIIIe siècle en France, Paris, 1987, p. 182.