A MATCHED PAIR OF LOUIS XVI CARVED GILTWOOD CONSOLE TABLES circa 1780, one stamped J. F. Leleu JME

one later parcel-painted to resemble rosewood.

One console formerly in the collection of M. and Mme. Delplace, Brussels, Sotheby's Monaco, June 15, 1996, lot 98
Bernard Steinitz, Paris

Both with modern shaped stands not shown in catalogue illustration. One top with restored breaks and chips. The other, possibly later top, also with chips and abrasions. Scattered age and construction cracks, chips and abrasions to both. Scattered old worm damage; more extensive on one. One side hanging garland probably later. Same with entrelac detail under top later. Entrelac on other and galleries on both with some small restored breaks. Gesso with with scattered cracks, chips, abrasions and losses. Gilding with rubbing and some losses. Paint with rubbing and minor losses; now exposing original gilding in minor areas. In good 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.

These console tables were probably conceived not as an exact pair but rather as en suite companion pieces as indicated by the slight variation of the side compartments. Originally both gilt, they were most likely intended for the same interior where each piece had its own distinct function while still blending seamlessly into the overall decoration due to their identical shapes and decoration. However, it is also possible that Leleu executed a number of tables of this model with minute differences, possibly to follow the specific wishes of his clients, and these two tables were paired up at a later date. Decorated with very finely rendered rinceaux, rosettes and guilloche-like friezes composed of interlaced circles, but raised on baluster legs and hung with lush garlands, these console tables are early, yet characteristic products of the goût étrusque of the 1780s.

JEAN-FRANÇOIS LELEU (1729-1807)

Along with Jean-Henri Riesener, Jean-François Leleu apprenticed in the workshop of Jean-François Oeben. After Oeben's death and Riesener marrying Oeben's widow, Leleu left the atelier to obtain his letters of maîtrise and set up his workshop first in the Chaussée de la Cointrescarpe and then on the rue Royale. He became almost instantly successful and his clients included the Prince de Condé, Madame du Barry, Baron d'Ivry and the Marquis de Marigny.