François Linke 1855 - 1946 A MATCHED AND RARE PAIR OF LOUIS XV STYLE GILT BRONZE MOUNTED KINGWOOD VITRINES Paris, circa 1900, index number 509

both surmounted by moulded Brèche violette marble tops, one vitrine with its proper left chute signed F. Linke, one lock has been removed to reveal the Clément Linke stamp and the index number 509 and the platform of one vitrine also numbered 509 in blue crayon, with one original key.

Overall in their good, original condition with their original marble tops and gilding. The gilt bronze mounts are tarnished and the gold is under the tarnishing, which can be professionally removed. The carcass and veneer with the usual minor nicks, dents and very light scratches to surface. Consistent with age and use.
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.

Linke title: Vitrine Louis XV, bronzes sur glaces haut 1.65 x 0.87 bois de violette, fond et tablettes, glace, bronzes ciselés et dores, dessus marbre.

This model, number 509 must have been conceived (and presumably the first produced) just before Linke's run up to his award-winning display at the 1900 Exposition Universelle in Paris. It is similar in shape and concept, using the technique that Linke perfected of laying bronze mounts over the bombé glass of vitrines, to his exhibition cabinet number 905. The latter being of a larger scale, Linke may have decided that the model of the present lot was too small to complement the other large scale pieces, notably Linke's masterpiece, 'Le Grand Bibliotheque,' index number 560.

It is interesting to note the handwritten inscription "509" in blue crayon to the platform on one of the vitrines. This type of crayon, in seemingly the same hand, has been noted on the reverse of a drawer of a desk by Zwiener, Linke's first employer in Paris (sold in these rooms, October 26, 2006 lot 106.) Another pair of the same model was sold at Christies London, September 27, 2007, lot 212, for 180,500 GBP.

Footnote courtesy of Christopher Payne.