A large Rococo style gilt bronze-mounted satiné bombé commode Paris, circa 1900, after the celebrated model by Joahann Melchior Kambli

surmounted by a brèche violette marble top, above two frieze drawers and a single deep long drawer, various mounts have been removed to reveal the stamp J. H. from the bronze master models

Licia Albanese (1909 - 2014) world renowned opera singer  

H.D. Molesworth and J. Kenworthy-Brown, Three Centuries of Furniture, New-York, 1969, p. 72 for the illustration of the 18th century model

H. Kreisel, G. Himmelheber, Die Kunst des deutschen Möbels, Munich, 1970, p. 771 for an illustration of the king's desk at Sanssouci executed by Kambli with mounts close to the present commode

Overall in fair condition, with the usual hairline scratches and nicks to veneers and carcass consistent with age and use. Seams of the carcass' construction is visible, and consequently these are now cracks. Both sides have cracks to the satiné veneer, the largest of which is approx. 8 in.. Extensive tarnishing and dirt to gilt-bronze, consistent with age and atmospheric conditions through the years. The marble with the usual minute chips to edges, and previously restored cracks, a few have crumbling filling.
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.

The original commode was commissioned by Frederick II of Prussia (1712-1786) circa 1760 and is veneered with red tortoiseshell and surmounted by a lapis lazulis top with silver bandings and mounts. Although the bronze mounts have clearly  been identified as designed and cast by Johann Melchior Kambly (born 1718 in Zürich, died 1783 in Potsdam), the carcass was probably made by the Spindler brothers: Johann Friedrich (1726-1812) and Heinrich Wilhelm Spindler (1738-1788). In 1764 the two brothers moved to Potsdam and as Hofebenisten the brothers were entrusted with parts of the furnishings for the Neues Palais in Potsdam, including boiserie panels and commodes showing the very characteristics of the piece offered here and such in keeping with the Kaisser's fervent admiration for the rococo style and it was in this manner that he wished his palaces to be decorated.

150 years later, a royal descendant, Kaiser Wilhelm II, German Emperor and King of Prussia (1859-1941) summoned Joseph-Emmanuel Zwiener to Postdam at Neues Palais, Sans Souci. Although he admired the work of Parisian cabinetmakers, Kaiser Wilhelm II preferred the work of German craftsmen. Zwiener had produced a copy of a bureau du Roi for Ludwig II of Bavaria in 1884, prior to receiving his summons from the Kaiser. However, given that there were a number of notable German craftsmen working for the court at the time, Wilhelm's interest in Zwiener is significant. Always keen to tout the ideals of a Franco-German unification, Wilhelm was probably intrigued by the fact that Zwiener, a German, had found such success in Paris. The Kaiser's commission must have likewise been a strong inducement for Zwiener, who had spent so much of his professional life away from home.  

A similar commode stamped ZWIENER, sold in these rooms April 14, 2008, lot 207 ($289,000)