A pair of engraved and tinted fruitwood amaranth, laburnum and mahogany marquetry and parquetry commodes circa 1770

possibly by an English cabinet-maker working in Gibraltar, each of serpentine form, the top of one with a ribbon-tied buried laurel medallion inlaid with the Trophies of War flanked by ribbon-tied floral bouquets the other with musical trophies, above four drawers inlaid with two drapery swags issuing a spray of three roses within a zig-zag border, the top drawer of each fitted with five pigeon holes, one long and four short drawers, with gilt-bronze beaded handles with lion mask backplates, the canted stiles with a naive mask suspending a trail of husks, each side inlaid with ribbon-tied medallions with a wicker basket of flowers above crossed palm leaves with drapery suspended from rings issuing roses, on bracket feet

An attractive pair of commodes with finely rendered marquetry. Overall in good restored condition. One top with a restored shrinkage crack the other with a smaller similar crack. Brasses are later. Old marks and scratches throughout 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. 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."